Pinguicula alpina, the Alpine Butterwort, is a captivating carnivorous plant native to alpine regions, featuring small, sticky leaves and delicate white to pinkish flower
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright light but avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Use distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water. Keep soil moist, not soggy.
Poor, acidic, nutrient-deficient soils (e.g., peat, sand, sphagnum moss)
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, with a distinct winter dormancy period. Avoid extreme heat.
Low Requirement
25% intensity
Naturally obtains nutrients from insects; avoid fertilizing unless necessary and then only highly diluted.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season, using distilled, rainwater, or demineralized water.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid using tap water, as its mineral content can harm the plant.
Pruning is typically minimal. Remove any dead or decaying leaves and flower stalks promptly to prevent fungal diseases and maintain plant health.
Use clean scissors or tweezers for a precise cut close to the base of the plant.
Propagation is usually done through division of established plants or by collecting and sowing seeds. Leaf cuttings can also be taken, but success rates may vary.
Sow seeds in a well-draining, peaty medium and keep consistently moist.
Repot Pinguicula alpina every 1-2 years, ideally in spring before active growth begins. Use a nutrient-poor, acidic substrate like a mix of peat moss and perlite or sand.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Alpine Butterwort (Pinguicula alpina)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
| Species | Pinguicula alpina |
Similar in genus Pinguicula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
