Cape Sundew: The Carnivorous Beauty That’s Not From Around Here
If you’ve ever wanted to add a little drama to your garden, meet the Cape sundew (Drosera capensis). This fascinating carnivorous plant looks like it’s perpetually covered in morning dew, but those glistening droplets are actually a clever trap for unsuspecting insects. While it’s not a native species, this South African beauty has found a home in some American gardens and wetlands.
What Makes Cape Sundew Special?
Cape sundew is a perennial forb herb that forms attractive rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves. Each leaf is covered in tiny, sticky tentacles that sparkle with dewdrop-like mucilage. When small insects land on these dewdrops thinking they’ve found water, they become stuck and eventually become plant food. The leaves often develop beautiful reddish hues, especially when grown in bright light, making this plant as ornamental as it is functional.
During growing season, Cape sundew produces delicate pink or white flowers on tall, slender stalks that can reach 12 inches above the plant. These charming blooms add an ethereal quality to the already magical-looking plant.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
Originally from the Cape region of South Africa, Drosera capensis has established itself in California, where it grows in wetland areas. As a non-native species that reproduces on its own in the wild, it’s found a niche in suitable habitats across the Golden State.
The Wetland Connection
This plant is what botanists call an obligate wetland species, meaning it almost always grows in wet conditions. In both the Arid West and Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast regions, you’ll find Cape sundew thriving in consistently moist to saturated soils. This makes it perfect for bog gardens, pond edges, and other water features.
Should You Grow Cape Sundew?
Cape sundew can make an interesting addition to specialized gardens, particularly if you’re fascinated by carnivorous plants or want to create a bog garden. However, since it’s not native to North America, consider these factors:
- It requires very specific growing conditions that can be challenging to maintain
- It’s best suited for container growing or controlled environments
- Consider native alternatives like native Drosera species if available in your region
- It can be educational and conversation-starting for children and visitors
Growing Conditions and Care
If you decide to grow Cape sundew, be prepared to pamper it a bit. This plant is quite particular about its needs:
Climate Requirements: Cape sundew thrives in USDA zones 9-11, though it can be grown as an annual or houseplant in cooler areas.
Soil and Water: Plant it in a mix of sphagnum moss and peat, or pure sphagnum moss. The soil must stay constantly moist to wet, and you should only use distilled water, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water – tap water can kill the plant due to mineral content.
Light and Location: Provide full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial. High humidity is essential for healthy growth.
Fertilizer: Never fertilize Cape sundew! It gets its nutrients from catching insects, and fertilizer can actually harm or kill the plant.
Planting and Maintenance Tips
- Plant in containers or bog garden settings where you can control soil moisture
- Keep the growing medium constantly moist by setting containers in trays of distilled water
- Remove spent flower stalks to encourage continued leaf production
- In cold climates, bring containers indoors or treat as an annual
- Watch for aphids, which can be problematic on carnivorous plants
The Bottom Line
Cape sundew is undeniably fascinating and can be a rewarding plant for gardeners who enjoy a challenge. While it’s not native and requires specialized care, it’s not considered invasive and can be safely grown in controlled settings. If you’re drawn to unusual plants and have the dedication to meet its specific needs, Cape sundew might be the perfect conversation starter for your garden. Just remember to research native carnivorous plants in your area – you might find equally captivating options that better support local ecosystems.
