Source: Wikimedia Commons
Drosera Capensis
BeginnerDrosera capensis
A hardy sundew from South Africa with beautiful glistening sticky leaves, perfect for beginners.
Overview
Drosera capensis, the Cape sundew, is native to the Cape region of South Africa and is arguably the most widely cultivated carnivorous plant in the world, universally recommended as the best introductory sundew for beginners. Its strap-shaped leaves are densely covered in red, mucilage-tipped tentacles that glisten attractively and capture small insects; upon contact, the leaf slowly rolls inward to envelop and digest prey. The plant is vigorous and self-seeds freely under suitable conditions. Cultivation requires nutrient-poor acidic media (sphagnum or peat-perlite), tray watering with pure or rainwater, and bright to full direct sunlight—more light intensifies the red pigmentation of the tentacles.
Lifespan of the Drosera Capensis
The Drosera Capensis lives 5+ years.
Size of the Drosera Capensis
The Drosera Capensis grows to 5-15cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Drosera Capensis
It tolerates temperatures down to about 5°C and high summer heat, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates.
Basic Info
Origin
Cape region of South Africa, moist sandy wetlands and seeps around the Cape Peninsula
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
5-15cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It likes bright light and direct sun is ideal. The more light it receives, the redder its tentacles become.
Watering
Keep the medium constantly moist with tray watering, using purified water or rainwater. Avoid excessive drying even in summer.
Temperature & Overwintering
It tolerates summer heat and is cold hardy to about 5°C. In winter keep it where temperatures do not drop below that.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in sphagnum alone or a peat moss and perlite mix. It grows vigorously, so repot once the roots fill the pot.
Propagation
In suitable conditions it self-sows and spreads. Easily raised from seed, it is a classic beginner's plant.
Drosera Capensis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Drosera Capensis?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Drosera Capensis?
The average lifespan of Drosera Capensis is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Drosera Capensis get?
The mature size of Drosera Capensis is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Drosera Capensis?
Drosera Capensis: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Drosera Capensis?
The price of Drosera Capensis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- Hardiness (RHS)
- H3
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Drosera capensis L.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
This genus is not listed in CITES Appendices (among carnivorous plants, only Nepenthes/Sarracenia/Dionaea are subject to CITES).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Drosera (Sundew) Care Guide | Diverse Carnivorous Plants That Trap Insects with Sticky Secretions
Explanation of how to grow carnivorous Drosera (Sundew). We introduce the characteristics of beginner-friendly varieties such as Spatulata, Capensis, and Adelae, methods for water tray watering, light conditions, overwintering, and propagation through leaf cuttings.
Drosera Propagation Guide — Leaf Cuttings, Division & Seeds
Propagating sundews: leaf cutting technique, division method, seed sowing, and species-specific propagation recommendations.
Complete Guide to Sundew (Drosera) Cultivation | How to Bring Out the Beauty of Its Sticky Secretions
Explains varieties such as D. adelae and D. capensis, water-tray management, light requirements, and differences between temperate and tropical species.
Sundew Species and Cultivation Techniques | Bringing Out the Beauty of Mucilage
This article explains the characteristics of major sundew species and cultivation techniques (light, humidity, soil) for making mucilage shine beautifully.
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