Bladderwort (Utricularia gibba)

Bladderwort

Also known as: Creeping bladderwort, Floating bladderwort

Bladderwort is a submerged or free-floating, mat-forming carnivorous aquatic plant. It has no root system. Adapted to low-nutrient wetlands, it is found in lakes, on lake edges, and muddy disturbed sites in the lowlands. Bladderwort is classified as a potential specialist invasive species that can outcompete native bladderworts in lowland wetland ecosystems. It is now found in all continents except Antarctica.

Scientific classification

Species

Bladderwort (Utricularia gibba)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Bladderwort

Distribution of Bladderwort

Distribution Map

Bladderwort thrives across various continents, from the Americas to Asia, Africa, and even parts of Europe. Esteemed in both native and introduced regions, bladderwort is sometimes thought to be an unwelcome guest in certain areas beyond its native range. Although bladderwort can be cultivated and is appreciated for its unique attributes, in places where it is not native, bladderwort may have an impact on local ecosystems. Despite this, bladderwort does not frequently disrupt ecosystems but is occasionally watched for such potential in sensitive habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shallow still or slowly flowing water, pools, lakes, bogs, swamps, marshes, rice fields

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Bladderwort

Filamentous stolonal system

Yellow flowers with red center

Spherical brown fruit, papery texture

Thread-like leaves with bladders

Slender green stem, minimal branching

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Care Guide for Bladderwort

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bladderwort thrives in moist, aquatic environments, requiring weekly watering to prevent root rot. As a carnivorous plant, it often grows submerged or floating outdoors, forming mats on calm waters, which supports its unique feeding mechanism and foliage growth.

Pruning: Bladderwort features small, yellow flowers and is carnivorous. Prune during early to late spring using sharp, sterilized scissors to remove overgrown stolons and decaying material. Regular pruning enhances water quality and promotes healthy growth by preventing overcrowding.

Propagation: To propagate bladderwort, divide rhizomes ensuring each section has a growth point. Use a well-draining substrate, maintain consistent moisture, and provide adequate sunlight and warmth. Periodic feeding aids growth. Handle this aquatic species carefully to avoid damaging delicate traps.

Repotting: Bladderwort is an aquatic carnivorous plant thriving in shallow water without roots. Repot every 2-3 years during the growing season in a suitable container. Maintain consistent water levels and nutrient-rich media for healthy regrowth while ensuring water quality is optimal.

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