About
A notable butterwort, *Pinguicula ramosa* is endemic to the mountains of Nikkō National Park in Japan, distinguished by its unique forked flower stalk. It forms a ground-hugging rosette and is adapted to colonizing weathered granite and volcanic cliffs.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant forms a ground-hugging rosette of 5–6 succulent, light-green leaves that are elliptic to spatulate, measuring 5–8 mm wide and 8–15 mm long. The flowers are 7–11 mm, featuring a three-lobed upper lip and a two-lobed lower lip, with petal lobes that are ovate-lanceolate and violet or white. The flower stalks are 15–90 mm long and unique in the genus for being forked near the base.
Distribution & habitat
Endemic to the mountains of Nikkō National Park in Japan, particularly on Mount Koshin, with populations also found on Mount Kesamaru and Mount Ozaku-san. It thrives at altitudes between 1500 and 1900 m.
Ecology
The leaves are densely covered with glandular hairs that trap and digest arthropod prey. It colonizes weathered granite rocks and volcanic cliffs in damp, foggy locations, often associated with *Saxifraga fortunei* and *Primula modesta*.
Conservation
The species is endangered due to its small distribution and habitat degradation from acid rain, climbing activities, and deer herbivory. It is strictly protected under Japanese law.
Habitat
- Altitude
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- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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