My garden, alive in my pocket.
Track my garden
🌿

Pale butterwort

Pinguicula lusitanica · Lentibulariaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant pale butterwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Common name
Portuguese butterwort
Family
Lentibulariaceae
Form
Carnivorous herbaceous plant
Flowering
Spring to summer (April-July)
Adult size
5 to 10 cm in diameter
Hardiness
Low hardiness (mild climate, -5 °C max)
Origin
Iberian Peninsula, wetland areas
Foliage
Evergreen, sticky leaves

Care

Watering

The Portuguese butterwort prefers constantly moist but never waterlogged soil. Use soft, rainwater, or distilled water, as hard water can harm the plant. Water from below by placing the pot in a saucer of water for 15 to 20 minutes, then remove any excess. In winter, reduce watering slightly but maintain minimum moisture.

Light exposure

Place the plant in bright, indirect light, away from direct sun rays which would burn the delicate leaves. A window facing east or west with a light curtain works perfectly. In winter, brighter exposure (even direct sun) is beneficial to support the plant's slow winter growth.

Substrate and soil

Use a very light and acidic mix: blonde peat, sphagnum, and perlite in equal proportions. Drainage must be excellent to prevent root rot. A substrate specifically designed for carnivorous plants is ideal. Avoid ordinary potting soil that is too rich in nutrients.

Fertilization

The Portuguese butterwort captures its own nutrients through its sticky leaves that trap small insects. No fertilizer is necessary and can actually be harmful. Simply ensure the plant receives enough small insects naturally or place it outdoors for a few weeks so it can feed itself.

Pruning and maintenance

Remove dead or heavily damaged leaves by gently pinching them at the base. The white or purple flowers can be left or removed after blooming. No structural pruning is needed: the plant naturally has a compact and dense form.

Diseases and pests

The butterwort is generally robust if humidity and drainage conditions are respected. Watch out for root rot if there is excess water. Spider mites can occur in overly dry conditions: increase ambient humidity by lightly misting the air (not the leaves). Isolate the plant if problems arise.

Ambient humidity

The Portuguese butterwort appreciates relative humidity of 60 to 80%. Create a humid atmosphere by placing the pot on a bed of wet clay balls or by grouping several plants together. Slight air circulation remains necessary to prevent mold.

Did you know?

The Portuguese butterwort is a sophisticated carnivorous plant: its leaves secrete a sticky and glossy substance that traps and slowly digests small insects, providing the plant with nutrients that its poor boggy habitat cannot offer. Its name 'pinguicula' comes from the Latin 'pinguis' meaning 'fatty,' referring to this characteristic sticky appearance.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

Add this plant to my garden →

Plants from the same family

Browse all plants →

Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.