Swollen bladderwort - Utricularia inflata (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Swollen bladderwort

Like all Utricularia species, Utricularia inflata is a carnivorous plant that traps small animals, especially tiny crustaceans. It's an aquatic species that doesn't have true roots, and it's found in environments such as ditches, swamps, and lakes. Unlike many carnivorous species, which are often endangered, swollen bladderwort is considered to be invasive.

Scientific classification

Species

Swollen bladderwort (Utricularia inflata)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

0 mm to 2.5 m

Plant Height

15 cm to 25 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Images of Swollen bladderwort

Distribution of Swollen bladderwort

Distribution Map

Swollen bladderwort is a floating aquatic plant native to the eastern regions of North America. This species has expanded beyond its indigenous range, notably to parts of Eurasia. It typically inhabits freshwater settings such as ponds and ditches. Its ability to adapt to new environments is evidenced by its successful introduction to various temperate zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Ponds, ditches

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Swollen bladderwort

Unique flotation system with inflated structures and branched spokes for buoyancy.

Vibrant yellow snapdragon-like flowers, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in diameter, in clusters.

Spherical capsules with dry, papery texture and balloon-like appearance for seed dispersal.

Filamentous, feathery 'leaf' structures, 0.2 to 2 inches (0.5 to 5 cm) long.

Fine segmented texture of leaves, lacking true veins, in green to yellowish-green hues.

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Care Guide for Swollen bladderwort

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Swollen bladderwort thrives in consistently moist, aquatic environments, preferring saturated soils and occasional submersion. Watering twice a week is recommended to maintain moisture. This resilient plant adapts well to seasonal water fluctuations, enduring both heavy rain and temporary dry spells.

Pruning: Swollen bladderwort, known for its underwater bladder traps, thrives with early spring pruning. Trim dead or overgrown leaves to enhance sunlight and oxygen flow. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent infection, ensuring balanced habitats and promoting vigorous growth.

Propagation: Swollen bladderwort thrives in water, propagating primarily through stem cuttings that root in nutrient-poor conditions. Harvest healthy cuttings and replant in similar aquatic habitats. Alternatively, scatter ripe seeds on the water's surface to allow natural growth, promoting new floating mats over time.

Repotting: The aquatic swollen bladderwort thrives when repotted every 2-3 years in a shallow, wide container during spring. Place in calm, nutrient-rich water with ample sunlight. This carnivorous species requires minimal aftercare, making it a unique, low-maintenance addition to your water garden.

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Learn More About Swollen bladderwort

Sunlight Requirements

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