Pinguicula 'Kondoi': 1-3 Plants in a Tissue Culture Cup

Visual Description:

Pinguicula 'Kondoi' is a stunning hybrid carnivorous plant that is admired for its compact rosette of thick, fleshy leaves. The leaves are typically a light green with a slight waxy texture, making them appear almost translucent. Each leaf is covered in a fine layer of sticky mucilage, which helps the plant trap small insects for nourishment. The highlight of Pinguicula 'Kondoi' is its charming flowers, which are usually a delicate shade of pink or violet, often with a contrasting white or yellow center. The combination of its unique foliage and attractive blooms makes this plant a prized addition to any carnivorous plant collection.

Country of Origin:

This hybrid is cultivated and does not occur naturally in the wild. It has been bred from species native to Mexico, where they grow in limestone-rich soils.

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Bright, indirect sunlight
• Humid environment with well-draining, nutrient-poor soil (a mix of peat moss, sand, and perlite)
• Keep soil moderately moist with distilled or rainwater (avoid tap water)
• Temperature range of 60-80°F (16-27°C) year-round, with slightly cooler conditions during winter dormancy

Additional Information:

• Watering Tips: Use only distilled or rainwater; avoid tap water, which can harm the plant due to its mineral content.
• Feeding: This plant is capable of catching its own prey, but occasional feeding of small insects like fruit flies can support its growth.
• Dormancy: Pinguicula 'Kondoi' may experience a slight dormancy period in winter, during which growth may slow down.

How to Harden Tissue Culture Pinguicula:

Gradually acclimatise your tissue-cultured plants to outdoor conditions. Start by placing the plant in a shaded area for a week, then slowly introduce it to more sunlight over the next 2-3 weeks. Maintain high humidity during this period and be cautious not to expose the plant to direct sunlight or strong winds too quickly.