Butterwort

Pinguicula – Butterwort

Pinguicula have smooth, slightly sticky leaves that catch fungus gnats and other tiny insects. Their flowers and compact rosettes make them beautiful as well as useful.

Important: Exact care, watering rhythm and final size depend on the species or hybrid, whether it is Mexican or temperate, and on the age and size of the plant. This difference is especially important during winter.

Plant Information

• Botanical group: Pinguicula
• Common name: Butterwort
• Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ Easy to moderate
• Typical mature size: approximately 5–20 cm across, depending on species or hybrid
• Growth habit: Carnivorous summer leaves; many Mexican types form a smaller succulent-like winter rosette

Care Guide

• Light: Bright filtered light or gentle morning sun. Avoid sudden exposure to intense Cyprus midday sun.
• Water: Rainwater, distilled water or reverse-osmosis water. Keep moist during active carnivorous growth, but never leave water sitting in the crown.
• Winter watering: For Mexican Pinguicula that form a succulent rosette, reduce watering and allow the mix to become slightly drier. Temperate species have different dormancy needs.
• Substrate: Use an airy Pinguicula mix. Many Mexican hybrids prefer a more mineral, fast-draining mix than Venus Flytraps; the exact recipe depends on the plant.
• Humidity: Moderate humidity with good airflow. Avoid a permanently closed, stagnant container.
• Feeding: No normal soil fertiliser. The leaves catch tiny insects naturally.

Propagation and Useful Tips

Many Pinguicula can be propagated from healthy leaf pullings or by separating offsets; rooting hormone is usually unnecessary. Remove dead leaves carefully, keep water out of the centre of the rosette, and adjust watering when the plant changes leaf form.