Content
- Worth knowing about butterwort species
- Greens are found mainly in Central America
- Buttercup species in Germany, Austria and Switzerland
- Characteristics of the butterwort species
- Use as ornamental plant
- Tips
The common butterwort is one of four species of butterwort found wild in Central Europe
Worth knowing about butterwort species
Fettkraut is one of the carnivorous plants (carnivores), which are usually cared for by lovers in pots. There are numerous species worldwide, but most of them are native to Central America. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland, there are only a few fatty herbs that thrive in the wild.
Greens are found mainly in Central America
85 different types of fatty herbs are known. By far the largest part is growing in Central and South America. Only in Australia and New Zealand no native buttercup species occur.
Buttercup species in Germany, Austria and Switzerland
In Central Europe, there are four types of fatty herbs that also grow in the wild.
Due to its location claim, fat butter is often limited to specific areas. Due to changed environmental conditions, fat plants in Germany are threatened with extinction and are therefore protected. They must not be excavated, picked or cut.
Characteristics of the butterwort species
All fat herbs form a native rosette. It can be colored differently depending on the time of growth. The flowers appear from May to August and stand on a 10 to 15 centimeters long stem. They are similar in shape to the violet and usually have a purple or violet-white color. If they are pollinated, ovaries form, in which the black seeds ripen.
The green or pink leaves of the fat weed serve as storage for moisture and nutrients. They are equipped with glands that excrete a sticky liquid. If insects settle on the leaf, they stick to it.
Enzyme digests the trapped insects. After a few days, only the chitin tank is visible as a shell.
Use as ornamental plant
Fatty herbs are becoming increasingly popular with hobby gardeners because of their flowers. Also, the plants are often kept in the kitchen or in the herb bed for the elimination of fruit flies and mourning gnats.
Tips
Buttercup can be kept well in a pot in a bright but not too sunny location. It prefers lean substrate and must be watered regularly, especially in summer. Fertilizing is not required.