Pinguicula

Pinguicula , commonly called greaseweed , is an elegant and striking carnivorous plant found in many parts of the world.

Main features:

• Adhesive leaves : The leaves are flat and covered with glands that secrete a sticky, shiny, dew-like substance.
• Adhesive technique : Insects, attracted by the shine, remain trapped and are digested by enzymes secreted on the leaf surface.
• Origins : Widespread in Europe, America and Asia, often in humid environments such as peat bogs, meadows and calcareous areas.
• Appearance : It forms low rosettes of fleshy, green or sometimes reddish leaves, and produces delicate purple, pink or yellow flowers.

Why is it so fascinating?

• Discreet capture : Unlike mechanical or jug ​​traps, it captures silently and elegantly.
• Dual nature : Many species are temperate and alternate carnivorous summer leaves with non-carnivorous winter leaves.
• Ornamental : The colorful flowers make it one of the most appreciated carnivorous plants also for its aesthetic appearance.

Where does he live?

Pinguicula has a very wide distribution: from the European Alps to Mexico, up to North America.

Why exactly there?

• Poor soil : Often grows in moist, calcareous soils that are poor in essential nutrients.
• Climate : It loves humid and sunny environments, with plenty of water and, in temperate species, cold winters that induce vegetative rest.