Scientific Name: Pinguicula mesophytica ‘Cerro El Pital, Honduras’

Also known as: Cerro El Pital Butterwort, Tropical Butterwort

Origin: Cerro El Pital, on the border of Honduras and El Salvador – the highest point in Honduras, a cloud forest environment with high humidity and cool temperatures.

Pinguicula mesophytica is a rare, tropical butterwort that forms a compact rosette of smooth, slightly pointed leaves that are typically green with a hint of red or pink tint when grown under strong light. Leaves are sticky and glandular, designed to trap small insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies. This species is notable for thriving year-round in warmer, more humid conditions—making it distinct from temperate butterworts that require dormancy.

Growing Requirements

Light: Bright indirect light to filtered sun. Suitable for windowsills, terrariums, or artificial grow lights (5000–6500K recommended).

Water: Only use low-mineral water such as distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.

Watering:

• Carnivorous phase: Keep the medium consistently damp but not waterlogged.

• Succulent phase (if present): Allow the substrate to dry slightly between waterings.

Humidity: 60–90% preferred. Provide gentle airflow to prevent stagnant conditions and reduce mold risk.

Temperature: Thrives between 15–25°C. Avoid exposure to temperatures below 10°C.

Feeding: Will catch small flying insects naturally. In indoor setups, occasional feeding with crushed dried bloodworms or fish flakes (no additives) is fine. Feed sparingly—no more than once a month.

Dormancy: No true dormancy, but growth may slow in cooler months. It may form tighter, more succulent leaves during drier or darker periods.

What’s Included

Plant: Small and sometimes green in colour at this stage. With the right light and time, it will develop its full coloration. Typically reaches 4–6 cm across at maturity. Plant is 2–4 cm across when shipped.

Grow Cup: 5 cm diameter, clear cup with ventilated lid to retain humidity during transit and acclimation. Top layer contains protective sphagnum or sterile tissue culture media.

Medium: Specially formulated carnivorous plant mix—low nutrient, airy, and moisture-retentive.

Instructions: Step-by-step planting and care guide included.

Beginner Tips

• Avoid getting water on the leaves—this can wash away digestive enzymes and attract mold.

• Use only mineral-free water—tap water may cause leaf tip burn or substrate salt buildup.

• Ensure good airflow—even in high humidity, light ventilation prevents fungal issues.