Butterwort Care Guide
Butterworts (Pinguicula) are charming carnivorous plants with greasy, sticky leaves that trap small insects. Known for their beautiful violet-like flowers and relatively easy care among carnivorous plants.
Light Requirements
Prefer bright, indirect light. Can handle some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sunlight. 12-14 hours of bright light daily promotes flowering.
Water Requirements
Use distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water only. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow slight drying between waterings, unlike other carnivorous plants.
Soil & Planting
Use well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand. Some species prefer more mineral content than other carnivorous plants. Good drainage is essential.
Temperature & Seasons
Mexican species: Warm-growing, prefer 65-80°F year-round
Temperate species: Need cool winter rest period, some form winter rosettes
Humidity
Moderate to high humidity (40-60%). Less humidity-dependent than other carnivorous plants but still appreciate moist air.
Leaf Stickiness
Healthy plants have greasy, sticky leaves that feel buttery to touch (hence 'butterwort'). This stickiness traps small flying insects like gnats.
Flowering
Produce beautiful flowers in purple, pink, white, or yellow on tall stalks above the leaves. Flowers resemble tiny violets and are often fragrant.
Common Problems
- Loss of stickiness: Too much water on leaves or insufficient light
- Crown rot: Water sitting in center of plant
- No flowers: Insufficient light or wrong seasonal conditions
- Leaf yellowing: Natural aging or overwatering
Seasonal Growth
Many species have different summer and winter growth forms. Summer leaves are sticky and carnivorous, winter rosettes may be non-carnivorous.
Popular Species
Mexican Butterworts (P. moranensis, P. agnata) are easier for beginners. Temperate species (P. vulgaris) need more specific care.
Feeding
Excellent at catching fungus gnats and fruit flies naturally. Don't need supplemental feeding if insects are present.