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Description
Utricularia Foliosa, commonly known as the Leafy Bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant belonging to the genus Utricularia. It is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Peru, Argentina, and Uruguay. This aquatic plant is known for its small yellow flowers and unique leaf structure that allows it to capture and digest small aquatic invertebrates.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Foliosa has delicate stems that can grow up to 30 cm long. Its leaves are finely divided and can float on the surface of the water or be submerged. The leaves are covered in small bladder-like structures that can capture small aquatic invertebrates. The flowers of Utricularia Foliosa are a bright yellow and can be up to 2 cm in length. They are held above the water on a long stalk.
Care Guide
Utricularia Foliosa requires specific care to thrive:
- Water: This plant is an aquatic carnivore and needs to be kept in water that is free from chlorine and other chemicals. Rainwater is ideal for this plant.
- Fertilization: Utricularia Foliosa does not require additional fertilization as it obtains its nutrients from the small invertebrates it captures.
- Soil: This plant does not require soil as it is an aquatic plant.
- Sunlight: Utricularia Foliosa requires full sunlight or partial shade to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant can survive in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Foliosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the water it is growing in becomes stagnant or polluted.
Habitat
Utricularia Foliosa is native to South America and can be found in shallow freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers still or slow-moving water with a pH range of 5.0-7.5.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Foliosa be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Utricularia Foliosa can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is kept in water that is free from chemicals and is fertilized by the small invertebrates it captures.
Q: How often should I change the water for Utricularia Foliosa?
A: Utricularia Foliosa should have its water changed every 2-4 weeks to prevent the buildup of pollutants and keep the water fresh.
Q: Can Utricularia Foliosa be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Utricularia Foliosa can be propagated by division. Carefully divide the plant and replant each section in its own container with fresh water.
Q: Does Utricularia Foliosa require a dormancy period?
A: No, Utricularia Foliosa does not require a dormancy period.
Related Plants
- Utricularia gibba
- Utricularia vulgaris
- Utricularia inflata
References
- “Utricularia Foliosa.” International Carnivorous Plant Society, www.carnivorousplants.org/grow/guides/Utricularia.php.
- “Utricularia Foliosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b334.
- “Utricularia Foliosa.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ, www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5800.html.
