Pinguicula medusina vs. gypsicola: Differences and Office Cultivation Tips

A grower ordered P. medusina, noted resemblance to P. gypsicola, and asked about office growing under lights (dry air, tropical preferred).

Taxonomy

• P. medusina: Oaxaca, southern Mexico; bluish-white flowers with blue trim, shaped like P. agnata.
• P. gypsicola: San Luis Potosí, central Mexico; purple flowers shaped like P. moranensis.
• Distinct species; flowers are the proper ID key.

Office Recommendations

• Start with Mexican butterworts (lowest light needs).
• If they thrive, try easy Nepenthes (sanguinea, alata/DeRoose).
• These adapt to lower humidity if light is adequate.