Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris)

Family: Lentibulariaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Pinguicula vulgaris is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers wet soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The plant can be used to curdle plant milks. The milk is poured over a strainer on which fresh leaves of butterwort have been laid. — The plant can be used to curdle plant milks.; The milk is poured over a strainer on which fresh leaves of butterwort have been laid.; The milk is then left for a day or two until it sours when it becomes solid like yoghurt and is considered to be most delicious.; A small quantity of the milk can be kept to inoculate further batches.

Habitat & North American Range

Boggy soils on wet rocks and damp places, avoiding shady places. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)