Scientific Name
Pinguicula moranensis Kunth
Common Name(s)
Butterwort
Synonym(s)
Pinguicula moranensis var. moranensis
Scientific Classification
Family: Lentibulariaceae
Genus: Pinguicula
Origin
Pinguicula moranensis is native to Mexico and Guatemala.
Description
Pinguicula moranensis is a perennial insectivorous plant that forms summer rosettes of flat succulent leaves covered in sticky glands that attract, trap, and digest arthropod prey. In winter, it forms a non-carnivorous rosette of small leaves that conserves energy while low food and moisture supplies. The leaves are up to 4 inches (10 cm) long. Solitary pink, purple, or violet flowers appear twice a year on upright, up to 10 inches (25 cm) long stalks.
How to Grow and Care
You can grow Butterwort plants outside in temperate to warm zones or in a pot as annuals. In USDA zones 10 and 11, the plants will persist as perennials and grow new rosettes, multiplying the plant's diminutive size. The best soil for container plants is a mix of sphagnum moss with equal parts vermiculite or sand. Plants situated outdoors will do best in moist soil or even near water. Butterworts thrive in the sun to partial shade. The plants must never dry out, though potted plants should also have good drainage. They must experience a dormancy period to regrow and bloom each spring. Cut back the dead leaves in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
The Butterwort plant is fairly self-sufficient. It should not be grown indoors unless you have a gnat problem, but it can gather its own food outside. Unfortunately, the plant attracts tiny insects, which get stuck in the slimy, slick coating on the leaves. Their struggle encourages the release of a digestive enzyme. However, the little Butterwort will thrive provided with the correct light, temperature, and moist conditions.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Butterwort.
Links
- Back to genus Pinguicula
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
