Pinguicula Yucca Do 1713 (Butterwort)

Pinguicula 'Yucca Do 1713' is an attractive Mexican butterwort of uncertain botanical identity, belonging to the informal "Yucca Do" complex of plants originally introduced into cultivation through the Atlanta Botanical Garden from material collected by Yucca Do Nursery. Although it has similarities to species within the Pinguicula esseriana complex, its precise taxonomic placement remains unresolved and it is therefore best treated as an unnamed cultivated form rather than assigned to a species. It is a compact, perennial butterwort that produces neat rosettes, making it particularly appealing to collectors of miniature carnivorous plants. (pinguicula.org)

During the active growing season, the plant develops fleshy, sticky leaves covered in tiny mucilage-producing glands that capture fungus gnats, springtails and other small insects. Digestive enzymes released from specialised glands break down the prey, allowing the plant to absorb valuable nutrients from otherwise nutrient-poor environments. Under bright light the leaves often develop attractive pink, rose or purple tones, while remaining compact with gently incurved margins. In cooler, drier conditions the plant typically forms a smaller succulent winter rosette composed of non-carnivorous leaves, a characteristic shared by many Mexican butterworts. White flowers, sometimes showing faint lilac tones with a yellow throat and violet markings, are produced on slender stalks held well above the foliage to avoid trapping pollinating insects.

The enduring mystery surrounding the Yucca Do collection has made this clone particularly desirable among Pinguicula enthusiasts. More than two decades after its introduction, 'Yucca Do 1713' remains without a confirmed scientific identity, highlighting how much remains to be discovered about the remarkable diversity of Mexican butterworts. Its compact size, colourful foliage and intriguing history make it an excellent addition to any carnivorous plant collection, whether displayed on a windowsill or as part of a specialised Mexican Pinguicula collection.

Origin: Mexican "Yucca Do" complex (exact locality and species unresolved)
Plant Type: Tropical carnivorous perennial butterwort
Growth Habit: Compact rosette-forming plant with seasonal succulent winter rosette
Flowers: White to very pale lilac with a yellow throat and violet markings, borne on tall flower stalks
Light: Bright indirect light to strong artificial lighting
Water: Rainwater, distilled or reverse osmosis water; lightly moist during active growth with a slightly drier winter rest
Growing Medium: Free-draining Mexican Pinguicula mix with mineral components
Dormancy: Seasonal succulent winter rosette rather than a true dormancy

What's Included: One healthy Pinguicula 'Yucca Do 1713' growing in a Nano Nursery cup, ready to continue developing under suitable conditions.