Contents
Description
Utricularia Inflata, commonly known as the swollen bladderwort, is an aquatic carnivorous plant species. It belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family and is native to North America. The plant has small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. The leaves of the plant are divided into two parts, the submerged part which is finely divided and the floating part which is undivided. The plant is known for its ability to trap and digest small aquatic animals such as water fleas and mosquito larvae.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Inflata is a small plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. The leaves of the plant are divided into two parts, the submerged part which is finely divided and the floating part which is undivided. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, with a spur at the back. The plant has small, bladder-like traps that are used to catch and digest small aquatic animals such as water fleas and mosquito larvae.
Care Guide
Water: Utricularia Inflata requires a constant supply of clean, fresh water. It is best to use distilled or rainwater and avoid tap water, which can contain chemicals that may harm the plant.Fertilization: Utricularia Inflata is a carnivorous plant that derives most of its nutrients from the animals it catches. However, it can benefit from occasional feeding with a high-quality liquid fertilizer.Soil: The plant grows in water, so soil is not necessary. However, it is important to provide a suitable substrate for the plant to anchor itself. Sand or gravel can be used for this purpose.Sunlight: Utricularia Inflata requires bright, indirect sunlight. It is best to place the plant near a window or under artificial light.Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Inflata is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Inflata is relatively disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the water is not changed frequently. Overfeeding the plant can also lead to the development of mold or other fungi.
Habitat
Utricularia Inflata is native to North America and can be found in shallow ponds, marshes, and other wetland habitats. The plant prefers still or slow-moving water and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Inflata grow in a fish tank?A: Yes, Utricularia Inflata can be grown in a fish tank, as long as the water is clean and the plant is not overcrowded.Q: How often should I change the water for Utricularia Inflata?A: It is best to change the water for Utricularia Inflata every 2-3 weeks to prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals and bacteria.Q: Can Utricularia Inflata survive in cold temperatures?A: Utricularia Inflata is hardy in zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C).Q: How often should I feed Utricularia Inflata?A: Utricularia Inflata derives most of its nutrients from the animals it catches, so occasional feeding with a high-quality liquid fertilizer is recommended.
Related Plants
Other species in the Utricularia genus include:
- Utricularia gibba
- Utricularia vulgaris
- Utricularia purpurea
- Utricularia subulata
References
- “Utricularia Inflata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c716. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Utricularia Inflata.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ, www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5390.html. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Utricularia Inflata.” Invasive Plant Atlas of New England, www.eddmaps.org/ipane/ipanespecies/herbs/Utricularia_inflata.htm. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
