Eastern purple bladderwort (Utricularia purpurea)

Eastern purple bladderwort

Eastern purple bladderwort, or Utricularia purpurea, is a free-floating aquatic plant that is widespread in North and Central America. It is considered a carnivorous plant that will consume mosquitoes, although research is throwing new light on the plant's habits.

Scientific classification

Species

Eastern purple bladderwort (Utricularia purpurea)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

2.5 cm to 15 cm

Plant Height

8 cm to 20 cm

Spread

1.3 cm

Flower Size

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Eastern purple bladderwort

Distribution of Eastern purple bladderwort

Distribution Map

Eastern purple bladderwort is an aquatic carnivorous plant with a native distribution that spans mainly across the eastern regions of North America, the Caribbean, and Central America. It has been introduced and cultivated in other areas due to its unique traits, and thrives in wetland habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Small and medium size lakes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Eastern purple bladderwort

Yellow-green foliage with finely divided floating leaves.

Small bladder-like traps for capturing tiny aquatic organisms.

Bright purple snapdragon-like flowers with tubular structure.

Delicate, slender upright stalk reaching 4-10 inches (10-25 cm) above water.

Green submerged stem growing up to 3 feet (90 cm) long.

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Care Guide for Eastern purple bladderwort

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Eastern purple bladderwort thrives in moist, aquatic environments, requiring high humidity. Care includes watering biweekly to mimic tropical conditions. As a carnivorous plant, it flourishes outdoors, necessitating nutrient-rich and oxygenated water for its trapping mechanisms.

Pruning: Eastern purple bladderwort is an aquatic carnivorous plant that requires minimal pruning. Trim dead leaves in early to late spring for healthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning to reduce stress. Proper pruning improves oxygen flow, reduces algae, and enhances water quality. Use clean tools to prevent infections.

Propagation: Eastern purple bladderwort is an aquatic carnivorous plant that captures prey using bladder-like traps. For propagation, divide the rhizomes ensuring each has a growth point, and replant in consistently moist substrates. Maintaining moisture levels similar to its natural habitat promotes successful growth and multiplication.

Repotting: Repot eastern purple bladderwort every 2-3 years in spring, using a slightly larger watertight container. Maintain high humidity and stable water levels post-repotting. Eastern purple bladderwort thrives with minimal disturbance, and it's crucial to monitor water quality for optimal health.

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