Pinguicula

These hardy and tender perennials, commonly known as Bog Violets or Butterworts, are natives of the Northern Hemisphere and the Andes of America to the Antarctic regions. The name Pinguicula is derived from pinguis, fat, and refers to the greasy feel of the plants, thus the common name Butterwort. Butterworts are all bog plants and insectivorous. Tiny glands on the surface of the leaves secrete droplets of sticky fluid, which captures insects. Their struggling stimulates even more fluid to be released until the insect cannot get away and soon dies. The leaves then dissolve the insects and absorb the nutrients. These plants produce basal rosettes of yellow-green or purplish leaves. Pretty flowers are borne singly, atop stalks that are 3- to 10-inches in length, in April or May; they may be colored purple, pink, white, or yellow.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Butterworts in full sun or partial shade in whole fiber sphagnum moss or equal parts of peat moss and coarse vermiculite or sharp sand. Their soil needs to be moist. When planting in the bog garden, set on low mounds to prevent overwatering.

Propagation

Seeds will be ripe a few weeks after the blossoms die. When the seedpods turn brown, break them open and release the seeds. They may be stored in paper envelopes in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of moistened peat moss, milled sphagnum moss, or one part peat moss and one part vermiculite that has been watered with water mixed with fungicide. Set the containers in a shallow tray of water. Watering from below prevents the seeds from moving around. Keep out of direct sunlight and maintain a humid atmosphere by covering with glass or plastic wrap. Make sure to watch for fungal infections.