Contents
Description
Utricularia Minor, also known as Lesser Bladderwort, is an aquatic carnivorous plant native to North America. It belongs to the genus Utricularia and is one of the smallest species in this group. It has tiny, bladder-like traps that are used to catch small organisms like water fleas and mosquito larvae.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus: | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Minor has small, delicate leaves that are green or reddish in color. Its flowers are yellow with a purple spot in the center and bloom in the summer. The plant can grow up to 10 cm in height and spreads quickly in shallow water.
Care Guide
Utricularia Minor is a low-maintenance plant, but it does require specific care to thrive:
- Water: Keep the plant in shallow water, about 5-10 cm deep. Use distilled or rainwater, as tap water may contain chemicals that can harm the plant.
- Fertilization: Utricularia Minor does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create a well-draining soil for the plant.
- Sunlight: Utricularia Minor prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can damage the plant.
- Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Minor can survive in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Minor is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by:
- Aphids
- Scale insects
- Fungal infections
- Viral infections
To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy and provide it with proper care. If pests or diseases do occur, treat the plant with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Utricularia Minor can be found in shallow water, such as ponds, marshes, and bogs, throughout North America. It prefers acidic water with low nutrients and high oxygen content. It can also be grown in a container with distilled or rainwater and a soil mixture as described in the care guide.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Minor be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Utricularia Minor can be grown indoors in a container with distilled or rainwater and a well-draining soil mixture. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Utricularia Minor?
A: Utricularia Minor should be kept in shallow water, about 5-10 cm deep, and the water should be changed every few weeks to prevent buildup of nutrients and other chemicals.
Q: How quickly does Utricularia Minor spread?
A: Utricularia Minor can spread quickly in shallow water, but it is not considered invasive.
Q: How does Utricularia Minor catch its prey?
A: Utricularia Minor has tiny, bladder-like traps that are used to catch small organisms like water fleas and mosquito larvae. The traps are triggered by tiny hairs that are sensitive to movement.
Related Plants
- Utricularia Livida
- Utricularia Gibba
- Utricularia Vulgaris
References
- “Utricularia Minor.” The Carnivorous Plant FAQ. Accessed on August 9, 2021. http://www.sarracenia.com/faq/faq5300.html
- “Utricularia Minor.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277262&isprofile=0&
- “Utricularia Minor.” PlantSnap. Accessed on August 9, 2021. https://www.plantsnap.com/plants/carnivorous-plants/utricularia-minor
