About
The species *Pinguicula macrophylla* is a member of the butterwort genus, known for its sticky, glandular leaves that trap and digest insects. It is a perennial plant that forms rosette structures, and its flowers are zygomorphic, typically blue, violet, or white.
Field notes
Morphology
The leaf blade is smooth, rigid, and succulent, usually bright green or pinkish in color, with lengths ranging from 2 to 30 cm. The leaf shape is typically roughly obovate, spatulate, or linear. The flowers are zygomorphic, with two lower lip petals and a three-part upper lip, and are often blue, violet, or white.
Ecology
The plant traps insects using sticky mucilage secreted by peduncular glands, which lure prey, and sessile glands, which release digestive enzymes (including amylase, esterase, phosphatase, protease, and ribonuclease) to break down the insect's body components. It can also digest pollen and requires humid environments.
History & etymology
The genus name *Pinguicula* is derived from a term coined by Conrad Gesner in 1561, referencing the glistening leaves (Latin pinguis, meaning 'fat').
Habitat
- Altitude
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- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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