Pinguicula agnata x potosiensis

Pinguicula (Butterwort) agnata x potosiensis – Easy Carnivorous Plant with Fungus Gnat Control

Pinguicula, commonly known as Butterworts, are a delightful addition to any indoor plant collection. These small carnivorous plants are not only easy to care for but also produce light purple flowers when in bloom. Beyond their appearance, Butterworts help control fungus gnats, making them both attractive and useful.

Check out our detailed Pinguicula care guide for full growing advice. Key points are summarised below:

Growing Medium

Butterworts don’t grow well in regular potting soil. We grow ours in perlite, vermiculite, or sphagnum moss, but sandy peat moss and other hydroponic mediums are also suitable. Avoid using fertilisers, as they can damage the plant.

Watering

Butterworts prefer bottom watering with room temperature water. While some growers recommend distilled water, tap water is generally fine unless it is unusually hard. We water our sale plants with tap water here in metropolitan Melbourne, though rainwater is ideal. Keep the growing medium moist by sitting the pot in 1–2 cm of water, allowing it to partially dry out between waterings.

Root System

These plants have fine, thread-like roots primarily used for anchoring. They may become become dislodged from the medium if the pot falls over, etc. If this happens, simply place the plant back on top — it will reattach itself over time.

Environment

Butterworts are bog plants and thrive in conditions that mimic wetland habitats — bright indirect light, high humidity, and consistently moist growing media.

Dormancy

Pinguicula may enter dormancy during colder months. Leaves will shrink and lose their carnivorous function. We keep our plants in a heated environment to maintain active growth, so your plant will arrive in an active, carnivorous state.

What to Expect

The bare-rooted plants shown in the last few images are representative of what you’ll receive.

Each plant will be sent bare-rooted with a pot and growing medium included for easy potting upon arrival. We’ve found they travel best this way, as their leaves are delicate and don’t tolerate movement in the pot during shipping. The pot and medium (perlite topped with sphagnum moss), as shown in the first few images, will be included.

We'll also send a post-purchase video showing you how to pot the plant up when it arrives.