Mexican Butterwort
pinguicula moranensis
Also known as: ["Moran Butterwort","Mexican Pinguicula"]
Overview
A carnivorous plant native to Mexico, known for its sticky, insect-trapping leaves and vibrant purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus: | Pinguicula |
| Botanical Name: | Pinguicula moranensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor terrarium or greenhouse with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sphagnum moss-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove damaged or dead parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; direct morning sun is tolerated but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to stronger light gradually; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Use distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup; water thoroughly but allow excess to drain; avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
sphagnum moss and perlite mix, well-draining and acidic
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Use distilled or rainwater for soil; avoid mineral-rich soils; ensure constant moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) during dormancy in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth in growing season; allow cooler dormancy in winter.
Fertilizing
rarely, only during active growth with diluted carnivorous plant fertilizer every 4–6 weeks
Dilute fertilizer to quarter strength; apply to soil only, not leaves; skip fertilizing during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaf or stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Place in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Sphagnum moss or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots form in 4–6 weeks; new plantlets emerge in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting medium, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep medium consistently moist; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base with clean scissors; avoid cutting healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain hygiene and redirect energy to healthy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use sterilized tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh carnivorous plant mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; refresh the growing medium.
Checklist
Use fresh carnivorous mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently; avoid compacting soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Use distilled water; check soil moisture before watering; ensure proper drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; ensure consistent moisture in growing season.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; use pure sphagnum moss for acidity and moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf curling, reduced trapping, or blackening of leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, reduces trapping efficiency, and may cause leaf damage below 50°F.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide gentle bottom heat if needed; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or brown under prolonged heat above 90°F; traps may become less effective.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and ensure adequate air circulation; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use carnivorous plant fertilizer; dilute properly; apply to soil; avoid leaf contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a weak solution of carnivorous plant fertilizer (1/4 strength) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPinguicula moranensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant's carnivorous nature does not pose a threat to feline health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPinguicula moranensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant's carnivorous nature does not pose a threat to canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPinguicula moranensis is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is carnivorous, trapping small insects on its sticky leaves, but it does not produce any known toxic compounds harmful to humans.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Pinguicula moranensis?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, keep the soil consistently moist with distilled or rainwater, and maintain high humidity.
Q: Is Pinguicula moranensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why are the leaves turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves may indicate overwatering, poor drainage, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lentibulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light or parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
