Contents
Description
Utricularia Purpurea, commonly known as Purple bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the genus Utricularia. It is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps. The plant is well-known for its insect-trapping mechanism, which involves small bladders located on its underground stems that suck in prey when triggered.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
The Utricularia Purpurea plant has a unique appearance with small, purple flowers and flat, green leaves that float on the water’s surface. The leaves are divided into segments and have small bladders attached to them, which are used to trap insects. The plant can grow up to 12 inches in height and can spread up to 18 inches wide. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall and are about 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Utricularia Purpurea is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the plant in moist soil or shallow water. Do not let the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Use a mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite to grow the plant.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Purpurea grows best in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Purpurea is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or if the plant is overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Utricularia Purpurea is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps. The plant grows well in shallow water or moist soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is a popular choice for water gardens and can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Utricularia Purpurea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a container with moist soil or shallow water.
Q: How often should I water Utricularia Purpurea?
A: The plant should be kept in moist soil or shallow water. Water it whenever the soil or water starts to dry out.
Q: Can Utricularia Purpurea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Q: Is Utricularia Purpurea an invasive species?
A: No, Utricularia Purpurea is not considered an invasive species. However, it can spread quickly in ideal growing conditions.
Related Plants
- Utricularia Vulgaris
- Utricularia Sandersonii
- Utricularia Graminifolia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/water-plants/bladderwort/purple-bladderwort-plant.htm
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=UTPU
- https://www.aquascapeinc.com/water-gardening-plants-purple-bladderwort
