Butterwort Plant: The Sticky-Leaved Insect Eater

The butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris and relatives) is a perennial carnivorous herb native to Europe, North Asia, and North America. Its Latin name means "little greasy one," referring to the glistening, mucilage-covered leaves that trap and digest insects.

Distinctive Features

• Leaves: Rosettes of succulent, yellow-green leaves with stalked glands that secrete sticky droplets and digestive enzymes.
• Flowers: Solitary, spurred, usually violet-blue (sometimes white/pink) on slender scapes; bloom spring to summer.
• Prey: Small flies, gnats, springtails, aphids; also pollen.
• Dormancy: Temperate species form a tight, bud-like hibernaculum in winter.

Indoor Cultivation

• Pot: Shallow, well-drained; mix of sphagnum peat, sand, and perlite.
• Light: Bright filtered light; no direct hot sun.
• Water: Rain or distilled only; keep moist via tray method.
• Temp: 55–85°F active growth; cooler for dormancy.
• Pests/Diseases: Crown rot (overwatering), nematodes. Remove affected leaves; improve airflow.

Benefits

Natural control of fungus gnats and fruit flies in greenhouses and homes. Ornamental value with unusual foliage and pretty flowers.

Butterworts are a gateway into the world of carnivorous plants—easy to grow, endlessly fascinating.