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Description
Pinguicula caerulea, also known as the blue butterwort, is a carnivorous plant species that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. It is a small herbaceous plant that grows no more than 10 cm in height. The plant has blue flowers that bloom in the summer season. It is native to Mexico and can be found in the states of Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Veracruz.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
Appearance
Pinguicula caerulea has a rosette of leaves that are flat, oval-shaped, and covered in glandular hairs that secrete a sticky mucilage. The leaves are typically green, but can sometimes have a reddish tint. The plant’s flowers are blue, tubular, and have five petals that are fused together. They grow on stalks that can reach up to 30 cm in height, making the flowers taller than the plant itself.
Care Guide
Proper care is essential for the healthy growth of Pinguicula caerulea. Below are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Pinguicula caerulea prefers to be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant with distilled or rainwater, as tap water can contain minerals that can harm the plant.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it derives its nutrients from the insects it traps.
- Soil: Pinguicula caerulea prefers well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. A 50:50 mixture of peat moss and perlite is recommended.
- Sunlight: This plant can tolerate full sun, but prefers partial shade. A bright, indirect light is ideal.
- Hardiness Zones: Pinguicula caerulea is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pinguicula caerulea is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause leaves to distort and yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and leaf drop. Use a miticide to control them.
- Fungal diseases: Pinguicula caerulea can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as crown rot and leaf spot. Use a fungicide to control them.
Habitat
Pinguicula caerulea is native to Mexico and can be found in the states of Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Veracruz. It grows in wet and boggy areas, such as marshes and along streams.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Pinguicula caerulea easy to care for?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions.
Q: How often should I water my Pinguicula caerulea?
A: Water your plant when the soil starts to feel dry to the touch. Make sure to use distilled or rainwater.
Q: Can I fertilize my Pinguicula caerulea?
A: No, this plant does not require fertilization as it derives its nutrients from the insects it traps.
Q: Can I grow Pinguicula caerulea indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a bright location with good air circulation.
Related Plants
- Pinguicula moranensis
- Pinguicula ehlersiae
- Pinguicula gigantea
- Pinguicula laueana
References
- Barrett, C. F., & Wilson, C. A. (2011). Butterworts of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Pinguicula yucatanensis and Pinguicula moranensis, two new species in the P. moranensis complex. Carnivorous Plant Newsletter, 40(2), 50-58.
- Ellison, A. M. (2006). Nutrient limitation and stoichiometry of carnivorous plants. Plant Biology, 8(6), 740-747.
- Fleischmann, A., Rivadavia, F., Gonella, P. M., & Amorim, A. (2010). Two new species of Pinguicula (Lentibulariaceae) from Brazil. Plant Systematics and Evolution, 285(3), 113-122.
