Heat Tolerance of Drosera capensis and Nepenthes 'Gentle' in Indoor Conditions

Hello!

Species: Drosera capensis and Nepenthes 'Gentle'
Issue: I live in Southern New Mexico and the heat indoors can reach the mid-90s in my apartment. Never mind if they’re near a window that gets sunlight. Is this going to be too hot?

I don’t plan on leaving my air conditioner on during the day while I’m at work, but of course want to be able to enjoy these plants.

I understand the Drosera is likely to be fine, but I’m concerned about the Nepenthes. Information on both is appreciated though.

Answer

Hi Andrew,

Actually, it’s more likely to be the other way around. Cape Sundews are from a fairly cool climate, and the Nepenthes will not have a problem with the daytime heat. Both plants are pretty tolerant species, however. Our greenhouse is in the 90s every day in the summer, and that’s when we get our best growth. What’s more important for both of them is a nighttime cool-down, and if you have your AC on at night, it sounds like they’ll get that.

One thing you could do is if you think it might get dangerously hot in your apartment during the day is just set your AC to come on around 85–90°F. That way it would only keep the temperature from getting super hot, but not bring it down to regular room temperature in the 70s.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
https://www.growcarnivorousplants.com