About
A notable epiphytic species, *Pinguicula hemiepiphytica* is a tropical carnivorous plant found in the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is popular among hobbyists and is sometimes hybridized with other species for sale.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant is 8–20 cm tall and grows on rocks or trees, with leaves arranged in dense whorls. The summer form has 4 to 12 nearly circular, light green to purplish-pink leaves covered in mucus, while the winter form has shorter, narrower, light green leaves and lacks glands. Flowers are perfect, bilaterally symmetrical, with a five-lobed corolla and a purple to pink color, featuring a distinct spur.
Distribution & habitat
Cloud forests of Oaxaca, Mexico, with suspected presence in neighboring areas.
Ecology
The plant uses sticky leaves to trap small insects, triggering the secretion of digestive enzymes. Carnivory is an adaptation for nutrient acquisition in nutrient poor soils. The species is believed to be pollinated by hummingbirds, which is suggested by the long floral spur.
Cultivation notes
It is commonly cultivated for the nursery trade and is sometimes hybridized with other species for sale to hobbyists.
History & etymology
It was first identified in 1991. Until 1991, it was considered to be a variety of *Pinguicula moranensis*.
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
Crossed Pinguicula hemiepiphytica with another species?
Register the cross — if it's not yet documented you'll be the first contributor. If someone already registered it, you'll be redirected to add your photo.