How to identify Yellow butterwort (Pinguicula lutea)

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How to identify Yellow butterwort (Pinguicula lutea)

Yellow butterwort is a carnivorous perennial displaying a rosette of fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves, which are coated with a sticky mucilage that ensnares small insects. The leaves are bright green and typically span 2-5 inches (5-12.5 cm) long. In early spring, yellow butterwort produces distinctive, bright yellow flowers. Each flower is borne atop a slender, erect stalk measuring about 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in height. The blossoms feature a unique, spurred shape that sets them apart from other botanical species.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Yellow butterwort

Spoon-shaped leaves with sticky mucilage to trap insects.

Bright yellow flowers with spurred shape atop slender stalks.

Vibrant yellow flowers with notched petals and a distinct spur.

Smooth, spherical fruit capsules with tiny black seeds inside.

Slender, upright stem covered in fine hairs, reaching 6-8 inches in height.

Detailed Traits of Yellow butterwort

Leaf Features

The leaves of yellow butterwort are oblong, fleshy, and sticky, forming a basal rosette. They are yellow-green in color and can measure up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in length. The margins of the leaves curl inward during digestion. The texture is smooth and slightly glossy, with a sticky surface to trap insects. These characteristics are key for identification.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of yellow butterwort are solitary and vibrant yellow, each boasting five irregular notched petals and five sepals. A distinctive feature is one petal that curves back to form a spur. These blooms can reach about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, and they appear from March to May. The arrangement and shape of the petals, along with the formation of the spur, are essential identifiers, making the flowers easily recognizable for botany enthusiasts.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of yellow butterwort is characterized by a slender green stalk, standing upright with a height typically ranging between 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm). It is covered in fine, short hairs, giving it a slightly fuzzy texture. The stem is relatively thin and does not exhibit significant branching. The coloration remains consistently green throughout, making it a distinct feature among its surroundings. These characteristics are key for identifying the plant in its natural habitat.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of yellow butterwort is a spherical capsule measuring about 0.2 to 0.3 inches (5-8 mm) in diameter. It matures from a green hue to a brown color as it dries. Inside, the capsule splits open to reveal numerous tiny, black seeds. The surface of the capsule is smooth, and the seeds have a granular texture. These capsules are typically seen from June to July, signifying the fruit's peak display period. These features assist in the dispersion of seeds for the propagation of yellow butterwort.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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