Are you looking for a carnivorous plant that looks beautiful, catches insects and is still super easy to care for? Then you should definitely take a look at the butterwort, also known as Pinguicula 🛒 called Pinguicula. This enchanting carnivore is perfect for beginners and will spoil you not only with its fascinating sticky traps, but also with its pretty flowers. To help you care for it effortlessly, you can find all the important tips about butterwort here – from choosing a location to propagation.
The right location is crucial
Pinguicula loves bright, but not too sunny places. The Mexican species in particular thrive on a windowsill with plenty of light but no draughts. You can recognize the ideal spot by the fact that the leaves turn a beautiful green and are covered with shiny sticky drops. These not only serve to catch prey, but also show that your butterwort is completely happy. Some species can even cope with chalky tap water – a real advantage over many other carnivores.
How to water Pinguicula correctly
Watering pinguicula works differently to normal houseplants. Simply place the pot in a saucer with 1-2 cm of water so that the substrate can soak up water from below. Allow the water to disappear completely before topping up. Rain or distilled water is ideal, but tap water is actually permitted for this plant.
Butterwort in winter: Observe the dormant period
Not every Pinguicula grows the same throughout the year. Many species, especially those from Europe, retreat in winter and form so-called hibernacula – a kind of hibernating bud. During this time, water less and ensure cooler temperatures. Tropical species, on the other hand, continue to grow and enjoy a constant climate on the windowsill.
Repotting and propagating
Butterwort grows slowly, so it is sufficient to repot the plant every few years. If a root breaks off, it’s no problem – the plant quickly forms new roots in moist substrate. You can even propagate your butterwort very easily: Break off a leaf with a base and place it on slightly moist substrate. Small offspring will soon sprout from the break.
How to keep your butterwort healthy
Butterworts are considered to be particularly uncomplicated if you keep a few things in mind: a bright location, mineral substrate and not too much moisture in winter. You will be rewarded with numerous pretty flowers in white, purple or pink – all year round. Whether you want to get rid of fungus gnats or are simply looking for an unusual plant, it’s definitely worth buying a butterwort plant.
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Do you want an easy-care, decorative and useful houseplant? Then the butterwort is just the thing. With a little light, the right watering technique and a suitable location, you will be able to enjoy your Pinguicula have – without any green fingers.
Source: Green Jaws
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