P. ehlersiae is a lovely little Mexican Butterwort that hails from the southeastern Mexican states of Hidalgo and San Luis Potosi. Its compact rosettes of carnivorous leaves are replaced by succulent foliage in winter, when the days grow shorter and the nights cooler. During its active season, each leaf forms a distinct "lip", which aids in preventing secretions and trapped insects from escaping the leaf blade. P. mesophytica is a Central American species which typically grows as an epiphyte, clinging to tree trunks, roots, rocks, and other surfaces. Its showy blossoms have a distinctive "Mickey Mouse ears" shape. This hybrid of the two produces compact, neat rosettes of leaves that gain a beautifuly rosy hue under bright lighting. We recommend full-spectrum grow lights to bring out the very best coloration in all of our Mexican Pings. Otherwise, they enjoy warm (75-80 F) days and slightly cooler (65-70 F) nights, bright light, moist soil, and relatively high humidity, which is easily accomplished with a pebble tray. We recommend bottom watering Mexican Pings using distilled or rainwater. Our Tropical Butterwort Medium is ideal for potting, and they prefer plastic pots that don't accumulate mineral salts as ceramic can.
Pinguicula ehlersiae x mesophytica
Please note: images shown are of mature or near-mature plants; we ship well-established young plants, typically in 1 to 2 inch pots. Each plant will essentially look like a smaller version of the adult, and with proper care, will grow steadily and produce a mature specimen like that pictured. Mexican Butterworts are delicate plants, and we take great pains to carefully package and cushion each plant. Still, it's possible that some leaves may be bruised or lost in the shipping process. This is entirely normal, and will not affect the plant's long-term health. Simply follow the care instructions provided, and your plant should begin growing new leaves in short order during active growth season. Winter succulent foliage is typically less easily damaged, but may still suffer slight bruising, and this is normal. If plants show signs of greater damage, please take clear photos and contact us at once. We will be happy to refund or replace any plant that is damaged enough that it won't bounce back with proper care.
