Pinguicula gigantea
Giant Mexican Butterwort
Description
Source: leafsnapPinguicula gigantea is a tropical species of carnivorous plant in the family Lentibulariaceae. Its native range is within Mexico. P. gigantea's flower is usually a purple colour with the occasional light blue also seen. P. gigantea was once classified as Pinguicula ayautla. This Pinguicula was discovered by Alfred Lau and described by the botanist Hans Luhrs.Pinguicula gigantea has a few different forms, such as the 'white flower' form or the 'blue flower'.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 2-3 days
☀️ Light
🌡️ Temperature
This plant often loves environments where temperature is warm and humidity level is averagely high. For this plant to attain its highest growth with healthy development of its parts, keep them in a temperature that is between 68-77°F(20-25°C) in the summer and 41-50°F(5-10°C) in the winter. Also, ensure that the humidity level is between 60-70%.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil
🌱 Fertilizer
This succulent perennial plant is not a heavy feeder and does not have any need to be fertilized because adding too many nutrients may cause a disruption in its growth cycle. If fertilizer is however considered, ensure to use Schultz cactus fertilizer by applying it only to the leaves and as instructed in the package.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
The Mexican Butterwort just like other Sedums, is a low maintenance plant which does not require regular pruning. However, pruning is beneficial in order for this plant to look neater and appear more pleasing. Since it responds well to pruning, use a sharp pruner to cut back dead stems and leaves back to where you want them. Also clean them up a bit after winter by removing any dead or damaged branches.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
The Mexican Butterwort plant, so far, has not demonstrated any known toxicity whether by ingestion or by direct contact with the skin. For safety precautions, ensure to keep this plant away from inquisitive children and little animals as excessive consumption of this plant can cause mild stomach upsets and some other gastrointestinal disorders.
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Carnivorous plant
- Genus
- Pinguicula
- Family
- Lentibulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Bloom Time
- Spring to early summer
- Native Area
- Mexico