About
Pinguicula vulgaris, the common butterwort, is a perennial carnivorous plant with low-growing, pale yellow-green, sticky leaves in a star-shaped rosette that curl to trap small insects. Bright-purple, funnel-shaped flowers with a speckled white interior appear from May to July. Native to damp, boggy locations � a fascinating native for a cool, moist, sunny bog garden.
About the genus
Pinguicula, the butterworts, are carnivorous perennials with sticky, succulent-like leaves that trap and digest insects and small invertebrates. They produce violet-like flowers in blue, violet, white or pink. Grown as fascinating specialist plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBogs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a compost mix comprising one part each peat substitute, coarse sand, perlite and dolomitic limestone chippings. Position in bright, filtered light. In growth, water freely; in winter water sparingly. See carnivorous plant cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe on the surface of damp sphagnum moss with gentle heat, or separate resting buds in late winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free