Pinguicula, commonly known as Butterwort, is a genus of perennial carnivorous herbaceous plants belonging to the family Lentibulariaceae. It is the only genus in the family that possesses true roots. The name derives from the Latin word pinguis, meaning “fat” or “greasy,” which refers to the plant’s fleshy, oily, and shiny leaves. Butterworts form a basal rosette of mostly green, fleshy leaves covered in glands that secrete a sticky, mucilaginous substance.
Habitat
Butterworts are found in non-tropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere, as well as in South America, Asia, and Europe. They grow along streambanks, in peat bogs, and sometimes on mosses and trees. These plants prefer sunny or semi-shaded moist locations, and some species are frost-hardy. Their size ranges from 2 cm to 15 cm in diameter.
Insect-Catching Mechanism
The upper surface of Pinguicula leaves is covered with numerous glands. Some glands secrete sugary mucus, while others produce digestive enzymes. The digestion process is similar to that of Sundews (Drosera), but Pinguicula leaves do not curl up. Instead, the entire leaf surface is coated with digestive glands. When an insect lands on the leaf, it sticks to the surface, and the digestion process begins immediately, providing the plant with the necessary nutrients.
Care Tips for Pinguicula (Butterwort) at Home
Placement and Lighting
To grow Butterworts successfully, provide bright light for 2–3 hours daily. Morning or evening sunlight is ideal, but protect the plant from intense midday sun. A south-facing window with direct sun is not suitable for this plant. Butterworts thrive in terrariums or aquariums. Higher temperatures require higher humidity levels.
- Summer: Pinguicula can tolerate temperatures from +20°C to +30°C. Ensure the humidity increases with rising temperatures, and nighttime temperatures should drop slightly.
- Winter: Although Butterworts do not require a dormancy period, it’s best to lower the temperature during winter. Place the plant closer to a window, maintaining a temperature of +15°C to +18°C.
Soil
A suitable soil mix consists of:
- 50% peat
- 40% perlite (or coarse quartz sand)
- 10% medium-grade vermiculite
Pinguicula has very fine and delicate roots, so the substrate does not need to be as specific as for other carnivorous plants.
Watering
- Use only distilled water for watering.
- Water from the tray but do not leave water standing in the tray for long. Allow the plant to absorb the water fully, and then leave it dry for a day or two (in summer).
- In winter, water once a week. Avoid misting the plant.
Humidity
Maintain humidity levels between 40% and 70%, depending on the temperature. Higher temperatures require higher humidity. Butterworts can be grown in an open-top aquarium or terrarium. Place a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the aquarium with water, and set the Butterwort on a tray above.
Feeding
Never feed Butterworts human food; only live insects are acceptable. Generally, these plants do not need feeding as they catch small flies, fungus gnats, and mosquitoes on their own.
Dormancy
Most Pinguicula species do not require a winter dormancy period. However, if the plant produces winter leaves, it indicates the beginning of a resting phase. Move it to a cooler location (not below +5°C) with bright light. Reduce watering to a minimum and increase humidity. Never water directly into the rosette center during this period.
Repotting
Repot Butterworts annually in March to allow them to acclimate to the new environment.
- Gently remove the plant from the old substrate, supporting it from below the rosette to avoid damaging its delicate roots.
- Moisten the new substrate with distilled water and create a small hole for the plant. Insert the roots into the soil, ensuring all roots are covered.
- Place the pot in its new location, marking it to avoid rotating the plant relative to the light source. Cover the plant with a dome for about a week to maintain humidity and minimize stress.
Pinguicula is a fascinating carnivorous plant that adds a unique charm to any indoor garden. By following these care guidelines, you can successfully cultivate this beautiful and functional plant in your home!