Drosera capensis 'Red': 1-3 Plants in a Tissue Culture Cup

Visual Description:

Drosera capensis 'Red' is a stunning and vibrant cultivar of the Cape Sundew, known for its striking red coloration. The plant features long, narrow leaves that unfurl into a graceful arch, covered in glandular hairs that secrete a sticky mucilage. This mucilage glistens in the light and is used to capture insects, which provide the plant with essential nutrients. The red coloration intensifies under bright light, making Drosera capensis 'Red' a standout in any carnivorous plant collection.

Country of Origin:

Native to the Cape region of South Africa, though this particular cultivar is a result of selective breeding.

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Bright, direct to indirect sunlight
• Humid environment with well-draining, nutrient-poor soil (a mix of sphagnum peat moss and perlite or sand)
• Keep soil consistently moist with distilled or rainwater (avoid tap water)
• Temperature range of 65-80°F (18-27°C) year-round, with slightly cooler temperatures at night

Additional Information:

• Watering Tips: Use only distilled or rainwater; avoid tap water, which can harm the plant due to its mineral content.
• Feeding: Drosera capensis 'Red' is highly effective at catching its own prey, but occasional feeding of small insects can enhance growth.
• Dormancy: Drosera capensis does not require a winter dormancy, making it easier to care for year-round.

How to Harden Tissue Culture Drosera:

Gradually acclimatise your tissue-cultured plants to outdoor conditions. Start by placing the plant in a shaded area for a week, then slowly introduce it to more sunlight over the next 2-3 weeks. Maintain high humidity during this period and be cautious not to expose the plant to direct sunlight or strong winds too quickly.