A carnivorous rosette of soft, greasy-feeling leaves that catch fungus gnats on their sticky surface, topped by pretty pink-purple flowers. An easy, ornamental carnivore for a bright windowsill.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 10 cm H × 12 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: consistently moist soil
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mexican Butterwort
Pinguicula moranensis is a slow-growing perennial in the Lentibulariaceae family. It reaches around 10 cm tall and 12 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Pink and purple flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Mexican Butterwort
Mexican Butterwort suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Mexican Butterwort does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Mexican Butterwort is consistently moist soil. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Mexican Butterwort after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Mexican Butterwort in the garden
Mexican Butterwort earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Mexican Butterwort with other plants that enjoy the same consistently moist soil and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Mexican Butterwort
Plant Sale lists Mexican Butterwort as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.