Contents
Description
Pinguicula Macroceras or Large-flowered Butterwort is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. It is native to Mexico and is known for its vibrant purple flowers that bloom during the summer months. This plant is often grown as an ornamental and is popular among collectors because of its unique appearance and carnivorous nature. Pinguicula Macroceras is a small plant that grows up to 15 cm in height and has a rosette of leaves that are covered in sticky glandular hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
Appearance
Pinguicula Macroceras has a rosette of leaves that are green in color and covered in sticky glandular hairs that trap insects. The leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 4 cm in length. The flowers of Pinguicula Macroceras are purple in color and grow on a long stem that can reach up to 20 cm in height. The flowers are tubular and have five petals that are fused together at the base. The plant produces sticky mucilage on the leaves to digest insects that get trapped on them.
Care Guide
Pinguicula Macroceras requires a moist and well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. It prefers to be grown in bright, indirect sunlight and in temperatures between 21°C to 29°C. This plant can be grown in hardiness zones 8 to 10. Water the plant regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid using tap water as it may contain minerals that are harmful to the plant. Instead, use rainwater or distilled water. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a weak solution of insectivorous plant fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests that affect Pinguicula Macroceras are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs. The most common diseases that affect Pinguicula Macroceras are root rot and fungal leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Pinguicula Macroceras is native to Mexico and can be found growing in wetlands, bogs, and other areas with high humidity. It grows in soils that are low in nutrients and relies on carnivory to obtain the nutrients it needs to survive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pinguicula Macroceras be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Pinguicula Macroceras can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and a moist environment.
Q: How often should I water my Pinguicula Macroceras?
A: Water your Pinguicula Macroceras regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid using tap water and instead use rainwater or distilled water.
Q: What is the best temperature range for Pinguicula Macroceras?
A: Pinguicula Macroceras prefers to be grown in temperatures between 21°C to 29°C.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Pinguicula Macroceras?
A: Fertilize your Pinguicula Macroceras once a month during the growing season with a weak solution of insectivorous plant fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Pinguicula Agnata
- Pinguicula Emarginata
- Pinguicula Gypsicola
- Pinguicula Laueana
References
- “Pinguicula Macroceras.” The International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Pinguicula-macroceras.
- “Pinguicula Macroceras.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c545.
- “Pinguicula Macroceras.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 9 July 2019, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinguicula_macroceras.
