Pinguicula estrellita is a unique carnivorous plant known for its star-shaped rosette and vibrant coloration. This butterwort is a hybrid, a cross between Pinguicula ehlersiae and Pinguicula mesophytica, created by Rainbow Carnivorous Plants. Its leaves are covered in sticky mucilage that traps small insects.
Caring for Pinguicula Estrellita
Light
Light is important for the health and appearance of Pinguicula estrellita. These plants thrive in moderately bright conditions, benefiting from a sunny windowsill, like an east or west-facing window with early or late direct sun. Intense light can cause the plant to blush a deep pink or reddish hue, enhancing its ornamental value. If grown indoors under artificial lights, LED grow lights with 18-24 watts per square foot, placed about 12 inches from the plant, can provide consistent light. Insufficient light leads to greener, elongated growth and reduced dew.
Watering
Watering Pinguicula estrellita requires pure water to prevent mineral buildup. Distilled water, reverse osmosis (RO) water, or rainwater should be used exclusively. Mexican Pinguicula, including ‘Estrellita’, are not bog plants and prefer their soil moist but not waterlogged. A common method is placing the pot in a shallow tray with 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water, allowing it to dry out periodically before refilling for root oxygenation. During its winter succulent phase, reduce watering, letting the soil dry out between waterings.
Substrate
A low-nutrient, well-draining substrate is essential for Pinguicula estrellita, which naturally grows in drier, rocky soil. A recommended mix is often equal parts sand, peat moss, pumice, and perlite. Regular potting soil is unsuitable due to its nutrient content and moisture retention. Some growers add a small amount of dolomitic lime or oyster shells to counteract peat acidity, as many Mexican Pinguicula prefer alkaline soil. Repotting annually helps refresh the soil and prevents mineral buildup.
Temperature and Humidity
Pinguicula estrellita prefers temperatures between 50-90°F (10-32°C). Brief dips to 40°F (4°C) at night are tolerated if daytime temperatures rebound, as are short heat waves above 90°F (32°C) if protected from direct sun and kept watered. Unlike common misconceptions, Pinguicula do not require high humidity and thrive in drier household conditions; 50-80% humidity is suitable. Good air circulation is beneficial, especially in more humid environments, to prevent rot or fungal growth.
Feeding
Pinguicula estrellita traps small insects with sticky mucilage on its leaves. They efficiently catch gnats, fruit flies, and springtails, digesting them with secreted enzymes. Supplemental feeding is generally unnecessary, as they obtain sufficient nutrients from insects in their environment. If manual feeding is desired, small insects or a diluted solution of Schultz Cactus Fertilizer (seven drops per 20 ounces of distilled water) can be applied to the leaves once or twice a month during the growing season.
Propagating Pinguicula Estrellita
Leaf pullings are a common and effective method for propagating Pinguicula estrellita. Simply remove a healthy leaf from the plant, ensuring the white base is intact, as it contains cells for new growth. Place these leaves on a moist substrate, such as the recommended peat, sand, pumice, and perlite mix, or live sphagnum moss.
New plantlets typically emerge from the base of the leaf in a few weeks to months. Seed propagation is also possible. For seed propagation, sow seeds on the surface of a moist substrate and keep humid; germination occurs within 4-8 weeks. Propagate during the plant’s active growing season when it produces carnivorous leaves, allowing new plantlets to establish quickly.
Troubleshooting Pinguicula Estrellita Problems
Lack of sticky mucilage often indicates insufficient light, low humidity, or dehydration. Increase light exposure and ensure consistent moisture to restore dew production.
Brown or crispy leaf edges can signal underwatering, excessive direct sunlight, or very low humidity. Provide consistent moisture and adjust light to bright, indirect conditions. Etiolation, characterized by leggy or stretched growth, points to inadequate light and is corrected by moving the plant to a brighter location or increasing artificial light.
Rot, particularly root or crown rot, is often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Signs include rapid browning of the plant’s center or leaves. To prevent rot, ensure the substrate is well-draining, allow the water tray to dry out periodically, and provide good air circulation. If rot is detected, unpot the plant, remove affected parts, and propagate healthy leaves.