Pink sundew
Drosera capillaris · Droseraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pink sundew: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Droseraceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Summer (June to August)
- Adult size
- 10 to 15 cm in diameter
- Growth
- Slow
- Hardiness
- Non-hardy, humid temperate climate
- Origin
- North America (Florida, Carolinas)
- Soil type
- Peaty, acidic, very well-draining
Care
Regular watering
Drosera capillaris enjoys constantly moist surroundings but never waterlogged. Water with soft water (rainwater or distilled) to prevent mineral buildup that damages the glandular leaves. Keep the substrate moist even in winter, a period of relative dormancy.
Bright indirect light
Place your plant in bright light, ideally near a window without harsh direct sun. Bright exposure promotes reddening and mucilage production on the leaves. Plants in shade become pale and less effective at trapping insects.
Acidic and porous substrate
Use a mix of sphagnum peat and sterile sand (or perlite) in equal parts. Absolutely avoid standard nutrient-enriched potting soils, which kill this carnivorous plant. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
No fertilizer needed
Drosera capillaris captures its nutrients directly through its glandular leaves. No fertilizer is recommended; excess minerals are toxic to this plant. Nutritional input comes solely from small trapped insects.
Minimal maintenance
Remove only dead or severely damaged leaves as they appear. Let flowers develop naturally; they are delicate and white or pinkish. No vigorous pruning: respect the natural compact rosette form.
Watch for rot and pests
Stagnant excess moisture promotes fungal rot: ensure good drainage and gentle air circulation. Spider mites may appear in overly dry air; maintain high humidity (60% minimum). Immediately isolate any affected plant to prevent spread.
Did you know?
Drosera capillaris is a carnivorous plant that produces shiny mucilage at the tips of its thread-like leaves, hence its name "capillaris" (hairy). These droplets perfectly mimic nectar drops and attract small insects, which stick to them and are slowly digested by enzymes: a truly fascinating evolutionary trap, testament to plant adaptation to nutrient-poor soils.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Great sundewDrosera anglica
- Drosera peltataDrosera peltata
- Drosera spatulataDrosera spatulata
- Drosera aberransDrosera aberrans
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.