Drosera capensis aka Cape Sundew

Drosera capensis, or Cape sundew, is a small carnivorous perennial. It belongs to the sundew family, Droseraceae. Its native range lies in South Africa's southern Cape region. It grows in marshes, seeps, and along stream banks. These sites provide the damp, open ground it needs. Kew records it as a plant of subtropical climates.

The plant forms clumps of leaves around a short, thick stem. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a height and width near 0.5 feet [0.15 m]. RHS lists a broader range of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 m] for both. The stem stands about 0.08–0.17 feet [0.025–0.05 m] tall. Long, narrow leaves form a rosette around it. Each leaf has a stalk and a blade of similar length. Red or pink glandular hairs cover the blades. These sticky hairs catch insects, which the leaves then digest. RHS describes the foliage as evergreen.

Pink flowers rise above the leaves on separate flower stalks. Each flower measures about 0.08 feet [0.025 m] across. The stalks reach 0.5–1 foot [0.15–0.30 m] tall. They carry loose groups of flowers above the rosette. Missouri Botanical Garden gives May to September as the bloom season. RHS reports flowers from spring through autumn, sometimes into winter. The flowers and bright leaf hairs provide much of its display.

Grow Cape sundew in full sun and keep its roots moist. Under glass, RHS advises shade from hot sun. Missouri Botanical Garden suggests a sphagnum mix with sand or perlite. RHS also lists loam and acid to neutral soil. Use rainwater or deionized water rather than untreated tap water. A saucer of rainwater can help maintain moisture under glass. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 7–9; RHS rates it H3. Lasting temperatures below 40°F [4°C] can trigger dormancy. Warm, humid indoor conditions with added light can support ongoing growth.

Cape sundew suits bog gardens, pond margins, and pots. It also serves as a houseplant or greenhouse plant. RHS gives one to two years to reach mature size. Neither RHS nor Missouri Botanical Garden reports major pest or disease concerns. It needs no pruning. Growers can raise new plants from seed, division, or cuttings. Buy plants from growers who do not harvest wild stock.