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Description
Utricularia Radiata, commonly known as the floating bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. This aquatic plant is native to North America and can be found in shallow waters, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. The name “bladderwort” comes from the small bladder-like traps that the plant uses to capture small aquatic organisms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
The Utricularia Radiata has long, slender stems that can grow up to 6 inches in length. The leaves are finely divided and have small hair-like structures that help the plant to float on the water surface. The flowers of this plant are small and yellow, and they bloom from June to September. The bladder traps are located on the stems and are used to capture small aquatic organisms, such as water fleas and mosquito larvae.
Care Guide
Utricularia Radiata can be grown in a container filled with clean water and placed in bright, indirect sunlight. It is important to use distilled water, as tap water may contain chemicals that can harm the plant. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant obtains its nutrients from the trapped organisms. This plant can survive in hardiness zones 5-11 but prefers warmer temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Utricularia Radiata is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the soil is too moist or if the plant is kept in shady conditions. Overfeeding the plant can also lead to root rot. It is important to keep the water clean and free of debris to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
Habitat
Utricularia Radiata is native to North America and can be found in shallow waters, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. This plant prefers still or slow-moving waters with plenty of sunlight. It is often found growing alongside other aquatic plants, such as water lilies and duckweed.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Radiata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Utricularia Radiata can be grown indoors in a container filled with clean water and placed in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: Do I need to fertilize Utricularia Radiata?
A: No, fertilization is not necessary as the plant obtains its nutrients from the trapped organisms.
Q: How often should I clean the water in the container?
A: It is recommended to clean the water every two weeks to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
Q: Can Utricularia Radiata be propagated?
A: Yes, Utricularia Radiata can be propagated by division in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Utricularia Gibba
- Utricularia Vulgaris
- Utricularia Inflata
- Utricularia Subulata
References
- “Utricularia Radiata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d497>
- “Utricularia Radiata.” Plant Database. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=UTRA2>
- “Utricularia Radiata.” Carnivorous Plant Resource. Accessed 18 May 2021. <https://carnivorousplantresource.com/plants/utricularia/utricularia-radiata/>
