Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pinguicula Grandiflora
BeginnerPinguicula grandiflora
A European butterwort with large purple flowers, very cold hardy and growable outdoors.
About
Pinguicula grandiflora, the large-flowered butterwort, is native to the Atlantic-influenced mountains of western Europe, including Ireland, western France (particularly the Pyrenees), and northern Spain, where it grows in moist, calcareous or siliceous rocky habitats and montane meadows. As its name indicates, it bears some of the largest flowers in the genus—vivid violet to blue-violet blooms reminiscent of large violets, produced in spring. The species is exceptionally cold-hardy, surviving hard freezes in its native range, and it enters a small, non-carnivorous winter rosette during cold periods. In cultivation it tolerates a wide range of media (sphagnum, sand-perlite mixes), prefers moderate moisture with good drainage, and can be grown outdoors year-round in cool temperate climates. Its large, spectacular flowers and cold-hardiness make it an outstanding ornamental.
Lifespan of the Pinguicula Grandiflora
The Pinguicula Grandiflora lives 5+ years.
Size of the Pinguicula Grandiflora
The Pinguicula Grandiflora grows to 5-15cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Western Europe (Ireland, western France, northern Spain, and the Pyrenees), montane moist rocky habitats and meadows
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
5-15cm
Temperature
10〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
Extremely cold hardy and needs winter chill. It forms dormant leaves in winter and overwinters outdoors in temperate regions.
Dormancy Care
It overwinters as a dormant bud. Expose it to outdoor cold to induce dormancy, and keep the medium from drying out completely.
Soil & Repotting
Use moist pure sphagnum or sand with perlite. As an alpine bog plant it needs both drainage and moisture retention.
Watering
Use pure or rain water and keep it evenly moist to slightly dry. Unlike Mexican species, it need not be dried out.
Light & Placement
Prefers bright indirect light to weak direct sun. Outdoors, avoid harsh sun and choose a cool, airy spot.
Pinguicula Grandiflora FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pinguicula Grandiflora?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Pinguicula Grandiflora?
The average lifespan of Pinguicula Grandiflora is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Pinguicula Grandiflora get?
The mature size of Pinguicula Grandiflora is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pinguicula Grandiflora?
Pinguicula Grandiflora: watering & fertilizer — Insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pinguicula Grandiflora?
The price of Pinguicula Grandiflora varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- Hardiness (RHS)
- H6
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Pinguicula grandiflora Lam.
Synonyms: Pinguicula vulgaris f. grandiflora (Lam.) St.-Lag., Pinguicula vulgaris var. grandiflora (Lam.) W.D.J.Koch, Pinguicula vulgaris subsp. grandiflora (Lam.) Bonnier & Layens
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
This genus is not listed in CITES Appendices (among carnivorous plants, only Nepenthes/Sarracenia/Dionaea are subject to CITES).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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