Drosera madagascariensis is a robust stem-forming species with a clearly visible stem, which stands upright in the case of younger plants and either uses its leaves to anchor itself to surrounding vegetation as it matures or bends over and forms a scrambling stem.

The upper part of the plant is composed of carnivorous leaves while the lower part of the stem is covered with the dried remains of older leaves.

The root system is relatively undeveloped, serving mainly as an anchor and for water absorption, since nutrient uptake is achieved through carnivory.

Drosera madagascariensis forms one or two slightly pubescent inflorescences which are 20–40 cm (8–15.5 in) tall and bear 4-12 flowers on 2–5 mm long peduncles.

Drosera madagascariensis is native to the tropical Africa (Guinea, Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo, Angola, Zambesi, Tanganyika) as far south as South Africa and east to the island of Madagascar.