With enormous leaves, P. gigantea is aptly-named, for sure! This Mexican species produces by far the largest plants of any Ping known, with adult rosettes sometimes spreading to 6 inches and beyond! P. 'huahuapan' is actually a disputed species, probably P. rectifolia, specifically the phenotype from Huahuapan de Leon, in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. This hybrid produces impressive mature plants with enormous leaves and a flower intermediary between its parents, with violet-hued sepals that come together in a deep-purple tinged throat with a white center. This is an easy Ping to grow. 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 gigantea 'alba' x huahuapan
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.
