Southern butterwort has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to moisture. It is prone to illness when humidity is high and is susceptible to root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Southern butterwort tolerates drought but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely while it is dormant. Southern butterwort is appropriate for people with some growing experience, though it can be challenging to maintain, particularly during dormancy. It is especially well suited to those who can dedicate time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Pinguicula Arvetii.
Light
Southern butterwort is native to places with dappled light, such as the forest understory or rocky sites that provide natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.
Temperature
Although Southern butterwort can tolerate some heat, it prefers and grows best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In very hot summer weather, provide shade to prevent scorching from strong sunlight. Reduce or stop watering during the hottest period to avoid root rot. It grows vigorously in winter and spring, and as long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Southern butterwort only requires light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or in summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for repotted specimens and wait a couple of months after repotting before feeding. Fertilizing helps sustain healthy growth and promotes blooms.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Southern butterwort, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Pinguicula
- Family
- Lentibulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Mature Height
- 5 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 3 cm to 8 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Yellow
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- Purple, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 1.52 cm to 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Summer
- Native Area
- Italy, Switzerland, Austria, France