Overview
Pinguicula macrophylla is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Pinguicula, part of the Lentibulariaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Pinguicula macrophylla grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and neutral and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1C. Suggested uses include houseplants.
About
Pinguicula macrophylla is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial belonging to the genus Pinguicula, known for its carnivorous plants with sticky, succulent leaves that trap insects. This deciduous cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade, favouring sheltered, south- or west-facing aspects. It prefers fertile, moist but well-drained loam or sandy soils with neutral to acidic pH. Hardy to H1C, it is suitable as a houseplant and is best propagated by seed or division. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, showcasing the typical blue, violet, or white flowers of the genus.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pinguicula
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Neutral, Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1C
Plant details
Pinguicula macrophylla size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pinguicula macrophylla
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, surface sown on damp sphagnum moss at 13-18°C (55-64°F) as soon as ripe. Propagate by division, removing offsets in late winter
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to slugs and snails
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pinguicula macrophylla?
Pinguicula macrophylla prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Pinguicula macrophylla need?
Pinguicula macrophylla grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers neutral and acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Pinguicula macrophylla hardy in the UK?
Pinguicula macrophylla has an RHS hardiness rating of H1c, meaning it needs a warm, frost-free position of 5–10°C and is best grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Pinguicula macrophylla?
Propagate by seed, surface sown on damp sphagnum moss at 13-18°C (55-64°F) as soon as ripe. Propagate by division, removing offsets in late winter.
More in the Pinguicula genus
- Pinguicula alpinaalpine butterwort

- Pinguicula heterophylla

- Pinguicula moranensisMexican long-spurred butterwort

- Pinguicula primuliflora

- Pinguicula 'Florian'
- Pinguicula 'Fraser Beaut'
- Pinguicula reticulata
- Pinguicula villosa