About
A notable carnivorous species, *Pinguicula filifolia* is found in the swampy white sand savannahs of western Cuba. Its leaves are coated with sticky glands that trap small insects and pollen, helping supplement its nutrition.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant forms rosettes 8–10 mm in diameter, typically bearing 4-6 blades. As it matures, the leaves become erect, linear-filiform, and narrow to 0.5–1 mm in width, reaching 80–150 mm in length. The leaves are cuneate at the base and acute at the apex. The leaves are coated with stalked glands that secrete a sweet mucilage and sessile glands on the adaxial surface.
Distribution & habitat
Found in western Cuba, ranging from the Pinar del Rio province to the island of Isla de la Juventud. It is restricted to low altitudes and coastal swamp-like white sand savannahs.
Ecology
It is carnivorous, using sticky secretions on its leaves to trap small insects and pollen. It thrives in wet soil and prefers a mild soil alkalinity ranging between 7.6 and 7.8.
History & etymology
Discovered by Charles Wright in 1866.
Conservation
Faces few threats due to its coastal location, though it may be threatened by heavy farming in the Pinar del Rio colonies.
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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