Pinguicula (Butterwort) C A Carnivorous Plant with Stunning Pink Flowers
Pinguicula, commonly known as Butterworts, are a fascinating addition to any indoor plant collection. These small carnivorous plants not only feature vibrant pink flowers but also serve a practical role in controlling fungus gnats. Their unique, sticky leaves trap small insects, providing them with essential nutrients while keeping your space gnat-free.
Care Guidelines for Pinguicula
Growing Medium
Butterworts have unique requirements and should not be grown in traditional soil. We cultivate them in perlite or sphagnum moss, though other suitable alternatives include sandy peat moss, vermiculite, and hydroponic mixes. Avoid fertilisers, as they can be harmful to the plant.
Watering
These plants thrive when bottom-watered with room temperature tap water. While some recommend distilled water, metropolitan Melbourne tap water generally suffices unless it's particularly hard. Rainwater is the ideal choice. Keep the medium moist by allowing it to sit in 1 - 2 cm of water, and wait until it has partially dried out before rewatering.
Root System
Butterworts have fine, thread-like roots used mainly for anchoring. If the plant becomes dislodged from its medium, simply place it back on the surface, and it will reestablish itself.
Environment & Dormancy
- As bog plants, Butterworts thrive in humid, wetland-like conditions.
- They may enter dormancy in colder weather, shrinking and losing their carnivorous function.
- To maintain their active growth, we keep them in a heated environment, ensuring they remain fully carnivorous upon arrival.
What to Expect When Ordering
The plants pictured represent what you will receive. If sale plants are flowering, flowers will be removed before posting to ensure safe transit.
Each plant is sent bare-rooted (as shown in the last few photos), along with a pot and media for immediate setup. We've found that shipping them in their pot often causes damage due to their delicate leaves, so this method ensures they arrive in the best condition, ready to thrive in their new home.
