Pest identification
What's eating my gypsicola butterwort?
Fungus gnats
Signs: Root-feeding larvae in the growing medium; reduced plant vigour; visible adults around pots
Control: Ensure very fast-draining gypsum/perlite mix stays barely moist; apply Bti drench; use sticky yellow traps
Mealybugs
Signs: White waxy colonies at the base of succulent leaves; leaf distortion and sticky residue
Control: Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; do not wet the crown; isolate the plant immediately
Keep gypsicola butterwort pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Gypsicola Butterwort pests — FAQ
What is eating my gypsicola butterwort?
Gypsicola Butterwort (Pinguicula gypsicola) is a Mexican carnivorous houseplant with narrow leaves that catch small insects and gnats. Its mineral gypsum-based substrate deters many soil pests naturally. Fungus gnats can still infest the mix, and mealybugs may appear at the leaf base in summer. Good drainage and airflow are the best defences.
How do I get rid of fungus gnats on gypsicola butterwort?
Root-feeding larvae in the growing medium; reduced plant vigour; visible adults around pots Ensure very fast-draining gypsum/perlite mix stays barely moist; apply Bti drench; use sticky yellow traps
How do I get rid of mealybugs on gypsicola butterwort?
White waxy colonies at the base of succulent leaves; leaf distortion and sticky residue Dab with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab; do not wet the crown; isolate the plant immediately