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Description
Pinguicula Oblongiloba, also known as the Oblong-leaved Butterwort, is a small carnivorous plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. This plant is native to the southern United States and Mexico, and it can be found in wet, sunny areas such as bogs, swamps, and marshes. The name “butterwort” comes from the fact that the plant’s leaves are covered in a sticky, buttery substance that traps and digests insects.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Pinguicula |
Appearance
Pinguicula Oblongiloba is a small plant that usually grows up to 4 inches in height. Its leaves are oblong-shaped, bright green, and covered in tiny glands that produce a sticky substance. The plant produces small, pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are usually five-lobed and have a yellow throat.
Care Guide
To care for Pinguicula Oblongiloba, you need to replicate its natural habitat as much as possible. Here are some care tips:- Water: The plant needs to be kept constantly moist. Use distilled water or rainwater, as tap water contains minerals that can harm the plant.- Fertilization: The plant does not require any fertilizer as it obtains its nutrients from the insects it traps.- Soil: Use a mixture of peat moss and perlite to create a well-draining soil.- Sunlight: The plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.- Hardiness Zones: Pinguicula Oblongiloba can grow in hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pinguicula Oblongiloba is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or if it is exposed to cold temperatures. To avoid root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not allow the plant to sit in standing water.
Habitat
Pinguicula Oblongiloba is native to the southeastern United States and Mexico. It can be found growing in wet, sunny areas such as bogs, swamps, and marshes. The plant prefers acidic soil and high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Pinguicula Oblongiloba?
A: The plant needs to be kept constantly moist. Water it when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I feed Pinguicula Oblongiloba myself?
A: No, the plant obtains its nutrients from the insects it traps. Do not try to feed it yourself.
Q: Can Pinguicula Oblongiloba grow in a terrarium?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in a terrarium as long as it is provided with adequate light and humidity.
Q: Does Pinguicula Oblongiloba go dormant?
A: Yes, the plant goes dormant in the winter. During this time, it will stop producing new leaves and flowers.
Related Plants
– Pinguicula caerulea- Pinguicula grandiflora- Pinguicula moranensis- Pinguicula primuliflora- Pinguicula vulgaris
References
– “Pinguicula Oblongiloba.” The International Carnivorous Plant Society. https://www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Pinguicula-oblongiloba.- “Oblong-leaved Butterwort.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/pinguicula-oblongiloba/.
