Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ is a unique butterwort cultivar, known for its striking appearance and carnivorous nature. Under optimal light, its rosette leaves display deep, purplish-red hues and glistening, sticky dew that traps small insects. The plant’s unusual spiral succulent rosette in winter and crown of thick adventitious roots in spring contribute to its distinct appeal, inspiring its name. Its beauty and insect-catching ability make it a sought-after addition to plant collections.
Cultivating Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’
Light
Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window providing direct sun during early or late hours is suitable. For indoor cultivation, LED grow lights offer consistent intensity (18-24 watts per square foot at 12 inches). Greener, elongated leaves or insufficient dew indicate a need for more light, which also enhances the plant’s purplish-red coloration.
Watering
These plants are sensitive to dissolved minerals; use only distilled, reverse osmosis, or rainwater. Tap water causes mineral buildup, harming plant health. The tray method is effective: place the pot in a shallow tray with 0.25 to 0.5 inches of water during the growing season. Allow the tray to dry completely for a few days between waterings, especially during the winter succulent phase, to ensure root oxygenation and prevent rot.
Substrate
Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ requires a well-draining, nutrient-poor, and acidic substrate. An effective mix uses equal parts sand, peat moss, pumice, and perlite. Regular potting soil is unsuitable due to excessive moisture retention and nutrients that harm the plant. The substrate must allow roots to breathe and drain well, while retaining moisture.
Humidity and Temperature
Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ prefers temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. While brief dips to 40°F and heat waves above 90°F are tolerated, consistent optimal temperatures are best. These plants do not require high humidity and tolerate lower levels, provided roots remain moist. Good air circulation prevents fungal issues, especially in humid environments.
Feeding
Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ naturally captures small insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies with its sticky leaves. Supplemental feeding can be beneficial if insect activity is low. Apply small insects or finely crushed fish food sparingly to the leaves every 3-4 weeks during the active growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer to the plant’s crown, as this can cause damage.
Propagating Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’
Propagation is most commonly achieved through leaf pullings. Gently remove a healthy, mature leaf from the mother plant, ensuring the white base remains intact. This is often done by carefully teasing the leaf, especially during the succulent phase.
Lay the detached leaf on a moist substrate, such as damp sphagnum moss or a mix of vermiculite and perlite. Place the leaf and substrate in a clear, lidded container to maintain high humidity, crucial for success.
Keep the container in a warm area with bright, indirect light, similar to adult plant conditions. New plantlets begin to form at the leaf’s base after 20-30 days. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, misting every 3-5 days as needed, as drying out leads to failure. Once large enough, plantlets can be transferred to their own pots.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Insufficient Light
Pinguicula ‘Queen Cthulhu’ leaves losing stickiness or vibrant coloration often indicates insufficient light. Brighter, indirect light restores the plant’s characteristic dew and enhances its hues. Conversely, scorched leaves suggest too much direct, intense light, requiring a move to a shadier spot.
Overwatering and Substrate Issues
Browning or mushy leaves, particularly at the plant’s crown, point to overwatering or an overly saturated substrate, leading to rot. Allow the substrate to dry more thoroughly between waterings, especially during the winter succulent phase, and ensure excellent drainage.
Mineral Buildup
Stunted growth or unusual leaf formations can result from mineral buildup from tap water. Switching to distilled, reverse osmosis, or rainwater is essential to prevent this.
Dead Growth Accumulation
If old, dead growth accumulates at the base, it can promote mold or mildew. Carefully removing these old leaves prevents further issues.