Scientific Name: Pinguicula gigantea var. Ayautla

Also known as: Giant Mexican Butterwort, Ayautla Butterwort

Origin: Ayautla region, Oaxaca, Mexico – a mountainous, humid habitat where limestone is common.

Pinguicula gigantea var. Ayautla is a stunning and robust Mexican butterwort known for its large, fleshy, and rounded leaves that form an impressive rosette. True to its name, it is one of the largest known Pinguicula species, with leaves that can exceed 15 cm in length under optimal conditions. The surface of the leaves is covered in sticky glandular hairs used to trap and digest small insects. Its substantial size and pale green to slightly pink-tinged foliage make it a dramatic centerpiece in any carnivorous plant collection.

Growing Requirements

Light: Bright indirect light or filtered sun. Suitable for sunny windowsills or strong artificial lighting (5000–6500K recommended).

Water: Use only distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.

Watering:

• Carnivorous phase: Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Succulent phase: Allow the surface to dry slightly before rewatering.

Humidity: 60–90% recommended. Maintain airflow to prevent mold on large leaf surfaces.

Temperature: Prefers warm conditions between 18–26°C. Sensitive to frost and should be protected from cold drafts.

Feeding: Easily catches its own food. In indoor setups, feed with small crushed insects, fish flakes, or dried bloodworms once a month or as needed.

Dormancy: No true dormancy, though growth may slow slightly in cooler or lower-light months.

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. Mature size can reach 15–20 cm across, making it one of the largest butterworts available.

Grow Cup: 5 cm clear plastic cup with ventilated lid to retain humidity. Topped with sterile media or moss for protection.

Medium: Low-nutrient, airy carnivorous plant substrate designed for moisture retention and healthy root growth.

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

Beginner Tips

• Avoid watering from above—especially on large leaves, as water can pool and encourage rot.

• Only use mineral-free water—tap water may damage roots and promote algae or salt buildup.

• Keep air moving—large rosettes need ventilation to prevent fungal issues.