The Cape sundew (Drosera capensis) is a carnivorous perennial with a rosette of strap-like leaves covered in sticky hairs that catch and digest small insects. Pink flowers are borne on long green stems.
This easy-to-grow sundew is ideal as an introduction to carnivorous plants. It will thrive on a sunny, south-facing windowsill and help keep your house free of fungus gnats, midges and fruit flies. Drosera capensis contrasts beautifully with the white form, Drosera capensis 'Alba', which has much paler green leaves and white flowers.
Cape sundews do best in full sun in a nutrient-poor, acidic medium such as a peat-free specialist carnivorous compost. Keep compost wet during spring and summer by standing the pot in a tray of rainwater. Remove from the tray in autumn and winter, but ensure that the compost stays moist.
Drosera and wildlife
Drosera has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
