Cape Sundew Drosera capensis narrow-leaved
ABOUT
The Drosera capensis narrow-leaved, commonly known as the Cape sundew, is a carnivorous plant notable for its slender, long leaves. The leaves are covered in tiny hair-like projections called tentacles, which are tipped with a sticky, glandular secretion that glimmers in sunlight, resembling morning dew. This secretion is used to attract, trap, and digest insects, providing the plant with nutrients in poor soil conditions. The leaves often curl around the trapped prey to optimize digestion. The coloration of this Cape sundew variant can range from a bright green to a reddish hue, often depending on the amount of sunlight and other growing conditions. In favorable conditions, the Cape sundew produces tall, elegant flower stalks bearing numerous, small, pink to white flowers that contrast with its carnivorous leaves below. The overall appearance of this plant is delicate and somewhat alien, with its sticky tentacles constantly moving to ensnare unsuspecting insects. Despite its predatory nature, the Cape sundew possesses a certain charm and is a plant of intrigue for many plant enthusiasts and collectors.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Cape Sundew, Narrow-Leafed Sundew, Red Sundew.
Common names
Drosera capensis narrow-leaved.
ToxicityTo humans
The Cape sundew, which is the common name for Drosera capensis narrow-leaved, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of poisoning or adverse effects from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergies or reactions are possible, and ingesting plant material that is not typically consumed is generally not advisable. If symptoms arise after handling or accidental ingestion, seeking medical advice is recommended.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, the Cape sundew is not known to be toxic to pets. There is no notable evidence that suggests pets like cats and dogs experience adverse symptoms after ingesting this plant. However, pet owners should always exercise caution and prevent pets from eating ornamental plants since individual reactions can vary, and non-food items can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset in animals. If any unusual symptoms are observed after ingestion by a pet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Educational Interest: Drosera capensis narrow-leaved, commonly known as Cape sundew, provides an opportunity for educational observation of carnivorous plant mechanisms and insect trapping strategies.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its slender leaves and delicate dew-like sticky droplets, Cape sundew adds unique beauty and interest to plant collections, terrariums, or carnivorous plant displays.
- Insect Control: Cape sundew can assist in controlling small insect populations as it naturally traps and digests insects such as gnats and fruit flies.
- Horticultural Research: This plant is an excellent subject for botanical studies and research into carnivorous plant behavior and evolution.
- Conservation Awareness: Cultivating and learning about Cape sundew can raise awareness about the conservation of carnivorous plants and their habitats.
- Hobby Cultivation: As a popular species among carnivorous plant enthusiasts, Cape sundew offers a rewarding experience for hobbyists interested in growing and caring for such unique flora.
Medical Properties- Antitussive â Traditionally used to treat coughs, especially those involved with whooping cough.
- Antispasmodic â May provide relief of muscle spasms or coughs by relaxing smooth muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory â It has been suggested to have anti-inflammatory properties which could help in reducing inflammation.
- Antimicrobial â Contains compounds that are thought to have antimicrobial activity which could help to fight certain infections.
- Expectorant â Helps in thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, facilitating its expulsion from the body.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: Cape Sundew's glistening dew-like glands make it popular among macro photographers who capture the intricate details of its unique, insect-trapping mechanism.
- Decorative displays: Hobbyists include the Cape Sundew in terrariums and vivariums for its aesthetic beauty and interesting insect-trapping feature.
- Science education: This plant is often used in classrooms to demonstrate carnivorous plant behaviour and adaptation in lessons on botany and ecology.
- Ecological studies: Researchers study Cape Sundew in its natural habitat to understand bog ecology and the role of carnivorous plants in the ecosystem.
- Biological control: Enthusiasts cultivate Cape Sundew as a natural pest control method to reduce the population of small insects like gnats and fruit flies.
- Art inspiration: The plant's unique appearance has inspired artists to create paintings, sculptures, and jewelry that mimic its form and coloration.
- Biomimicry: Engineers examine the sticky surfaces of Cape Sundew leaves to inspire new materials and adhesives that mimic this natural stickiness.
- Culinary decoration: Although not edible, the striking appearance of the Cape Sundew can be used to add a visual accent to exotic food presentations.
- Folklore and myth: Some cultures may reference plants like the Cape Sundew in tales and mythology, symbolizing themes such as entrapment and deception.
- Stress relief: Plant enthusiasts often find the maintenance and observation of Cape Sundew, and other carnivorous plants, to be a relaxing and rewarding hobby.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cape Sundew is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cape Sundew is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Drosera capensis, commonly known as the Cape sundew, displays a remarkable persistence in trapping insects, which symbolizes determination and the ability to hold on to things that are important.
- Patience: The Cape sundew slowly lures and digests insects with its sticky leaves, representing patience and meticulousness in obtaining one's desires.
- Ingenious adaptation: As a carnivorous plant, the Cape sundew has adapted ingeniously to nutrient-poor environments by consuming insects, symbolic of adaptability and resourcefulness.
- Attraction and allure: The glistening dew-like droplets on its leaves that attract prey could symbolize seduction and temptation, as well as the idea that appearances can be deceiving.
WaterThe Cape Sundew should be watered using the tray method by filling the tray with about an inch of distilled water and allowing the plant to soak it up from below, which ensures the soil remains moist without being waterlogged. This plant thrives in consistently wet conditions, so the tray should be refilled with water every couple of days to maintain the water level, which equates to approximately half a gallon per week depending on environmental conditions and pot size. Avoid watering directly onto the leaves to prevent mold growth.
LightThe Cape Sundew requires bright, indirect light to thrive. The best spot for this plant is a windowsill facing east or west that receives several hours of light but is shielded from the harsh midday sun. Grow lights can also be used to supplement light especially during the shorter days of winter but be sure not to expose the plant to excessive direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves.
TemperatureThe Cape Sundew prefers temperatures between 50-75 degrees Fahrenheit but can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Its ideal growth conditions are in the warmer part of this range, but not exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit, as extreme heat can stress the plant.
PruningPruning the Cape Sundew involves removing dead or dying leaves to promote healthy growth and prevent rot. This can be done as needed throughout the year, but the best time is during the plant's active growing season. The frequency of pruning is usually quite low, only necessary every few months or when you notice dead foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Cape Sundew prefers a soil mix of sphagnum peat moss and perlite or sand at a ratio of about 1:1, which ensures proper drainage and aeration. The ideal soil pH for this carnivorous plant is slightly acidic, ranging from 5.0 to 6.5.
RepottingThe Cape Sundew should be repotted every one to two years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. It's best repotted during the spring or early summer for optimal recovery and growth.
Humidity & MistingThe Cape Sundew thrives best in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50% and 70%. Maintaining such levels ensures the plant's leaves stay sticky and capable of trapping insects effectively.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place the Cape Sundew in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Grow the Cape Sundew outdoor in partial sun, protect from extreme heat.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Cape sundew, Drosera capensis narrow-leaved, begins its life cycle when its seeds are dispersed, often by wind or water, into moist, acidic soil, which is their ideal growing condition. The seeds then germinate, typically within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on environmental factors such as temperature and moisture. Once germinated, the seedlings emerge and start to develop their characteristic sticky, glandular leaves which they use to attract and trap insects. As the plant matures, it undergoes vegetative growth, producing a rosette of carnivorous leaves, and it continues to feed on insects to supplement its nutrient intake from the poor soil. After reaching maturity, which can take several months to a year, the Cape sundew will produce a tall flower stalk, with numerous small, pink flowers that can self-pollinate or cross-pollinate with the help of pollinators. The cycle is completed when the plant produces seeds which are dropped to the ground or carried away to start new plants, and the parent plant may die back if conditions become unfavorable or may continue to grow for several seasons in perennial fashion.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Cape Sundew, Drosera capensis narrow-leaved, is most commonly propagated through leaf cuttings. This process involves selecting a healthy leaf from the plant, then cutting it into several sections with a sharp, sterilized blade. Each section should have a small amount of the petiole, or leaf stalk, attached. These cuttings are then placed on a damp sphagnum moss or a similar medium, ensuring good contact between the cutting and the substrate without submerging them. The container with the cuttings should be kept in bright, indirect light and maintain high humidity, either by covering it with a clear lid or plastic wrap, to create a mini greenhouse effect. In a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and new plantlets, at which point they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots.
