Troubleshooting
Drosera capensis 'Alba' problems — and how to fix them
Drosera capensis 'Alba' (Drosera capensis 'Alba') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
No dew / dry tentacles
Caused by too little light or roots drying out. Increase light and keep the pot standing in mineral-free water; healthy plants should glisten with dew.
All-green with no vigour
The 'Alba' form is naturally green (it cannot make red pigment), but limp, pale, dewless growth signals insufficient light. Brighten the position; do not expect red colouration.
Mineral burn
Browning leaves and stalled growth from tap water or fertiliser. Use only rainwater/distilled/RO and keep the soil unfed.
Self-seeding everywhere
It flowers and sets seed prolifically, sprouting in neighbouring pots. Remove flower stalks before seed sets if you want to limit volunteers.
Prevent drosera capensis 'alba' problems before they start
Most drosera capensis 'alba' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common cape sundew problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Drosera capensis 'Alba' watering schedule
- Drosera capensis 'Alba' light requirements
- Best soil mix for drosera capensis 'alba'
- Drosera capensis 'Alba' temperature & humidity
- Full drosera capensis 'alba' care guide
Looking for drosera capensis 'alba' in general rather than its problems? Read the full drosera capensis 'alba' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Drosera capensis 'Alba' problems — FAQ
Why is my drosera capensis 'alba' no dew / dry tentacles?
Caused by too little light or roots drying out. Increase light and keep the pot standing in mineral-free water; healthy plants should glisten with dew.
Why is my drosera capensis 'alba' all-green with no vigour?
The 'Alba' form is naturally green (it cannot make red pigment), but limp, pale, dewless growth signals insufficient light. Brighten the position; do not expect red colouration.
Why is my drosera capensis 'alba' mineral burn?
Browning leaves and stalled growth from tap water or fertiliser. Use only rainwater/distilled/RO and keep the soil unfed.
Why is my drosera capensis 'alba' self-seeding everywhere?
It flowers and sets seed prolifically, sprouting in neighbouring pots. Remove flower stalks before seed sets if you want to limit volunteers.