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Description
Utricularia Australis, commonly known as the Australian bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the genus Utricularia. This aquatic plant is native to Australia and New Zealand and can be found in shallow waters such as ponds, swamps, and slow-moving streams. The plant has a unique way of catching its prey, which includes small aquatic invertebrates like mosquito larvae and water fleas. The plant possesses small bladder-like structures that trap the prey when it touches the trigger hairs on the bladder’s opening.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Australis has a thin stem that grows up to 50 cm in length. The leaves of the plant are small and linear, measuring about 1-4 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. The plant’s flowers are yellow with a purple spot on the lower lip and grow on a long stalk that emerges from the water’s surface. The flowers are about 2 cm in length and have a unique shape, resembling a small bird in flight.
Care Guide
To care for Utricularia Australis, it is essential to replicate its natural habitat as much as possible. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:Water: This plant requires a constant water source, and it is crucial to keep the water level consistent. Make sure to use distilled water or rainwater instead of tap water, which may contain harmful chemicals.Fertilization: Utricularia Australis is a carnivorous plant that obtains its nutrients from its prey. However, if you want to fertilize the plant, use a diluted liquid fertilizer once every two weeks.Soil: As an aquatic plant, Utricularia Australis does not require soil. However, you can add a layer of sand or peat moss at the bottom of the container to anchor the plant.Sunlight: The plant requires plenty of sunlight to thrive, and it is best to place it in a south-facing window.Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Australis thrives in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Australis is a relatively pest-free plant. However, it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered or exposed to stagnant water. To prevent root rot, make sure to keep the water level consistent and avoid overcrowding the plant.
Habitat
Utricularia Australis is native to Australia and New Zealand and can be found in shallow waters such as ponds, swamps, and slow-moving streams. The plant requires a constant water source and plenty of sunlight to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Australis be grown in a fish tank?
A: Yes, Utricularia Australis can be grown in a fish tank, provided the water is not too deep and the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Utricularia Australis?
A: You can fertilize Utricularia Australis once every two weeks with a diluted liquid fertilizer.
Q: Is Utricularia Australis a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, Utricularia Australis is a fast-growing plant, and it can quickly take over a container if not pruned regularly.
Q: Can Utricularia Australis be grown in a hydroponic system?
A: Yes, Utricularia Australis can be grown in a hydroponic system, provided the water is not too deep and the plant receives plenty of sunlight.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Utricularia Australis:- Utricularia Gibba- Utricularia Livida- Utricularia Bisquamata- Utricularia Graminifolia
References
– “Utricularia Australis.” Australian Native Plants Society Australia. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/u-aus.html.- “Utricularia Australis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286856.- “Australian Bladderwort.” Plant Care Today. Accessed July 26, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/australian-bladderwort.html.
