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Description
Utricularia Simulans, also known as the Fairy Apron, is a carnivorous aquatic plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Simulans has small green leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are covered in small hairs that trap and digest small aquatic organisms. The plant produces tiny yellow flowers with a purple center that bloom on a tall stalk above the water’s surface. The flowers only last for a few days before wilting.
Care Guide
Utricularia Simulans is an easy plant to care for as long as it is kept in the right conditions. Below are some tips to help you grow this plant:
- Water: This plant needs to be grown in water. Keep the water level at around 2-3 inches above the soil.
- Fertilization: This plant is a carnivore and gets its nutrients from digesting small aquatic organisms. It does not need additional fertilization.
- Soil: Utricularia Simulans does not need soil to grow. It can be grown in a container with water and a layer of sand or gravel at the bottom.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Simulans is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Simulans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, if the water is not kept clean, it can attract mosquito larvae. To prevent this, make sure to change the water frequently and keep the container clean.
Habitat
Utricularia Simulans is native to South America and can be found in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It grows in freshwater streams and ponds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Simulans be grown outside?
A: Yes, as long as the plant is kept in a container with water, it can be grown outside.
Q: How often should the water be changed?
A: The water should be changed every 1-2 weeks to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria.
Q: Can Utricularia Simulans be grown with other aquatic plants?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown with other aquatic plants as long as they have similar growing requirements.
Q: How fast does Utricularia Simulans grow?
A: This plant grows at a moderate pace, producing new leaves and flowers throughout the growing season.
Related Plants
- Utricularia gibba
- Utricularia inflata
- Utricularia livida
- Utricularia macrorhiza
References
- “Utricularia Simulans.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 9 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Utricularia_simulans.
- “Utricularia Simulans.” Aquatic Arts, 2021, aquaticarts.com/products/fairy-apron-utricularia-simulans.
- “Utricularia Simulans.” Tropica, 2021, tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/UtriculariaSimulans(078TC)/4445.
