Also known as Downy Butterwort
Pale Butterwort (Pinguicula lusitanica) is a small, carnivorous plant with delicate pinkish-white flowers and sticky leaves that trap insects for nutrients.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright locations with filtered sunlight. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Use distilled, rainwater, or RO water. Keep substrate moist but not soggy.
Acidic, nutrient-poor, consistently moist (e.g., peat and sand mixture)
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C during the growing season. Tolerates cooler temperatures in winter dormancy.
Low/None
25% intensity
Carnivorous; obtains nutrients from insects. Avoid regular fertilization; feed sparingly if insect prey is scarce.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis water. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings during active growth.
Reduce watering slightly during dormancy but never let it dry out completely.
Remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain plant health and prevent fungal infections. This is usually done as needed.
No other pruning is typically required for Pinguicula lusitanica, as it does not develop woody stems or require shaping.
Propagation is primarily achieved through leaf cuttings or by sowing seeds. Gently detach healthy leaves and place them on moist substrate. Alternatively, collect and sow seeds from mature plants.
Division of plantlets that form at the base of mature leaves is also an effective method.
Repot Pinguicula lusitanica every 1-2 years, ideally in spring before active growth begins. Use a well-draining, nutrient-poor substrate, such as 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 Pale Butterwort (Pinguicula lusitanica)
Where Pale Butterwort (Pinguicula lusitanica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
| Species | Pinguicula lusitanica |
Similar in genus Pinguicula
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
