Bringing Drosera capensis Indoors for Winter in Zone 8a

A grower in western Washington (zone 8a) found a Drosera capensis (Cape sundew) growing in a Sarracenia pot after four years. They ask when to dig it up to bring indoors, noting that D. capensis doesn't require winter dormancy.

Expert Advice: It Can Stay Outdoors or Come In

Jacob Farin confirms the ID and explains that while D. capensis is tropical, it can survive outdoors year-round in zone 8a if the roots are well protected—it will die back and resprout in spring. He cites a customer in Portland who grows them in 4-inch pots outdoors successfully. However, the nursery grows them as tropicals indoors.

Decision Factors

• If you want to nurture it, dig it up before extended frosts arrive.
• The species is very common and easily replaced with a well-established plant.
• For indoor care, refer to the online care guide for potting mix and conditions.

Good Growing!

Jacob Farin
Care Guides