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Description
Pinguicula Nivalis, commonly known as the Snow Butterwort, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. It is native to high-altitude habitats in the mountains of Europe, particularly in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. The plant is known for its small size, measuring only 2-5cm in diameter, and its green leaves that are covered in shiny, sticky hairs that attract and trap insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
Appearance
The Pinguicula Nivalis has green leaves that are about 1cm long and 5mm wide. The leaves are covered in sticky, glandular hairs that allow the plant to trap insects. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, and the plant produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The Snow Butterwort is a small plant, measuring only 2-5cm in diameter, and it grows close to the ground.
Care Guide
The Pinguicula Nivalis is a hardy plant that thrives in cold, high-altitude habitats. Here are some care tips to help you grow this carnivorous plant:
Water: The Snow Butterwort prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Use distilled water or rainwater to water the plant, as tap water may contain minerals that can harm the plant.
Fertilization: The Pinguicula Nivalis does not need to be fertilized, as it gets its nutrients from the insects it traps.
Soil: The Snow Butterwort grows best in a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand. The soil should be well-draining and porous.
Sunlight: The Pinguicula Nivalis prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate full sun, but it may need to be protected from intense heat.
Hardiness Zones: The Snow Butterwort is a cold-hardy plant that can survive in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pinguicula Nivalis is a carnivorous plant that is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues that may arise:
Snails and slugs: These pests can damage the leaves of the Snow Butterwort. Use a natural pesticide or hand-pick the pests to remove them.
Root rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot in the Pinguicula Nivalis. Make sure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
The Pinguicula Nivalis is native to high-altitude habitats in the mountains of Europe. It can be found in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians, growing in rocky or gravelly soils. The Snow Butterwort thrives in cold, moist environments, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Pinguicula Nivalis easy to grow?
A: The Snow Butterwort is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow as long as you provide it with the right conditions.
Q: Can I grow the Pinguicula Nivalis indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow the Snow Butterwort indoors as long as you provide it with bright, indirect sunlight and keep it in a cool, humid environment.
Q: How often should I water the Pinguicula Nivalis?
A: The Snow Butterwort prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Does the Pinguicula Nivalis need to be fertilized?
A: No, the Snow Butterwort gets its nutrients from the insects it traps, so it does not need to be fertilized.
Related Plants
- Pinguicula Alpina
- Pinguicula Vulgaris
- Pinguicula Grandiflora
References
- “Pinguicula Nivalis.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ. Accessed June 21, 2021. http://www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5210.html.
- “Pinguicula Nivalis.” International Carnivorous Plant Society. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/PNivalis.
- “Pinguicula Nivalis.” Plant Finder. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/pinguicula-nivalis.
