Butterwort is one of a group of plants that trap insects. The common butterwort is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows in bogs and meadows from Alaska to Oregon and east to New England. Three other species grow in bogs in the Southeastern United States.
A butterwort plant has a cluster of fleshy leaves that lie close to the ground and produce a sticky substance that attracts insects. When an insect settles on a leaf, the edges curve in and trap it. The insect dies and is digested by the plant. The common butterwort has violet-colored flowers on long, slender stems.
