Mix Pinguicula Butterwort Carnivorous Plant 10cm
Pinguicula, commonly known as the butterworts, is a genus of carnivorous flowering plants in the family Lentibulariaceae. They use sticky, glandular leaves to lure, trap, and digest insects in order to supplement the poor mineral nutrition they obtain from the environment.
Butterwort plants (Pinguicula) are tiny plants that can go unrecognized until they bloom. The leaves are a soft greenish yellow color, which probably led to the name. It could also be from the slightly greasy or buttery feel of the leaves. The plant forms low rosettes and blooms in spring with yellow, pink, purple, or white flowers.
Understanding how Butterworts attract their victims is a great place to start. Many people will have a vague idea of how the mechanics work, however, the science behind this is much more enjoyable.
The insect is lured onto the sticky 'platforms' via its scent of sweet nectar and shiny appearance. Once trapped in the mucilage, the digestive-acid located in the leaves' upper surface will begin its work in breaking down the victim's soft tissues - leaving nothing by its outer exoskeleton. The more the insect tries to escape, the more likely it is to become further trapped in the pads, thus providing a tasty meal for the plant.
Some species of Pinguicula will develop different-functioning leaves, depending on the season. During the dormancy period in the cooler months, it'll produce non-carnivorous leaves that act solely for photosynthesis, due to the absence of edible insects.
Once the spring arrives, new mucilaginous leaves will develop from its centre, readying itself to catch and digest potential victims for nourishment. The leaves' difference can be minimal; however, some will sport reddish-toned foliage in the carnivorous stages, while developing green new growth for the cooler periods to avoid wasting vital energy on digestive enzymes.
Light: Pings do well with moderately-bright light. Near an East or west window where they get direct sun for the early or late hours of the day. Direct sun in mid-day may be too hot and could scorch the leaves.
Water: Butterwort watering should vary with the seasons. In its native habitat, Mexican butterwort plants are used to wet summers and dry winters.
In spring and summer, water Pinguicula whenever the soil surface dries out. Always water from below so that the leaves will not get wet. In fact, the best thing to do in summer is to leave a half inch of water in the tray at all times to make sure the soil stays moist.
In winter, the Mexican butterwort plant’s watering needs change dramatically. As the plant enters its dormant phase, you should let the soil dry out almost completely between waterings.
Humidity: Many sites say pings need high humidity and in general offering high humidity is more ideal, provided you also offer good airflow. High humidity and stagnant conditions though, often cause leaf and root rot.
Temperature: Just like its watering schedule, the Mexican butterwort temperature range varies with the season.
In spring and summer, the best temperature for Pinguicula is between 68 to 85°F (20 to 29°C). Moving your pots outside for the summer would really give them a boost.
In fall and winter, they prefer a range from 41 to 50°F (5 to 10°C) when they go dormant. You should find a location such as an unheated garage or sunroom for those months.
Origin: Of the roughly 80 currently known species, 13 are native to Europe, 9 to North America, and some to northern Asia. The largest number of species is in South and Central America.
Toxicity: non toxic to pets.
Plant Supplied in nursery plastic pot : Ø - 8,5 cm x h - 8 cm