Description
Utricularia aka Bladderwort, is a highly evolved aquatic carnivorous plant that does the opposite of all other carnivorous plants. The Bladderworts catch their prey underground. The leaves above ground photosynthesis, while the roots have tiny little bladders on them, that suck teeny tiny worms or fungus gnat larvae into the bladders where they get digested. Native to South Africa, they can also be found growing in Lesotho, Madagascar and Namibia.
Basic Growing Guidelines:
Light: Bladderworts prefer full to dappled sun. The more sun they get, the more flowers they put out. But be careful of overhating the plant. (If the plant does not look happy, reduce the sunlight)
Soil: Our standard carnivorous soil mix is ideal for this plant. (1 part peat to 1 part perlite or silica sand.)
Feeding: Since this plant catches prey under the soil, you can only supplement feeding via weekly foliar fertiliser spray.
Humidity: 50 to 60% on average is ideal.
Water: Keep the soil wet using the tray method but never let the water level get higher than 1/4 of the pot height. Use Reverse Osmosis, Distilled or Rain Water Only. Use Reverse Osmosis, Distilled or Rain Water Only.
Temperature: Bladderworts can tolerate a wide temperature range, but protect from hard freezes.
Dormancy: Bladderworts require a winter dormancy rest period. During this time the leaves will die right back to soil level.
A summary of plant care is provided with each plant.
For more detailed information on how to care for your plant, refer to our Care Guides Section.
