Utricularia Uniflora
Contents
Description
Utricularia Uniflora, commonly known as the “one-flowered bladderwort,” is a carnivorous plant that belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. This plant is named after the small bladders that it uses to trap and digest small aquatic organisms, such as water fleas and mosquito larvae.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lentibulariaceae |
| Genus | Utricularia |
Appearance
Utricularia Uniflora is a small plant that typically grows up to 10 cm in height. It has thin, green leaves that are divided into many segments. The plant produces a single yellow flower that is held on a long stem above the leaves. The flower has five petals and a spur that contains nectar to attract insects. The bladder traps that the plant uses to catch prey are located on the roots and are not visible above ground.
Care Guide
Water: Utricularia Uniflora is an aquatic plant that requires a constant supply of water. It should be grown in a container filled with distilled or rainwater that is kept at a depth of 5 to 10 cm.Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, as it obtains its nutrients from the insects that it captures.Soil: Utricularia Uniflora does not require soil, as it is a floating aquatic plant.Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be placed near a window that receives morning or afternoon sun.Hardiness Zones: Utricularia Uniflora is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Utricularia Uniflora is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the water in its container becomes stagnant or contaminated with bacteria or fungi. To prevent this, the water should be changed regularly and the container should be kept clean.
Habitat
Utricularia Uniflora is found in freshwater habitats such as ponds, streams, and wetlands. It prefers still or slow-moving water that is rich in organic matter. This plant is native to South America, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe and North America.
Question and Answer
Q. Is Utricularia Uniflora a good plant for beginners?
A. Yes, Utricularia Uniflora is relatively easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.Q. Can Utricularia Uniflora be grown indoors?
A. Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and a constant supply of water.Q. How often should the water in the container be changed?
A. The water in the container should be changed every two to three weeks to prevent the buildup of bacteria and fungi.Q. Can Utricularia Uniflora be propagated?
A. Yes, this plant can be propagated by dividing the clumps of roots and planting them in separate containers.
Related Plants
Other species of Utricularia include:
- Utricularia Graminifolia
- Utricularia Gibba
- Utricularia Inflata
- Utricularia Vulgaris
References
- “Utricularia Uniflora.” The Plant List. Accessed 22 June 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2467551.
- “Utricularia Uniflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281126&isprofile=0&basic=utricularia%20uniflora.
- “Utricularia Uniflora.” Carnivorous Plant Resource. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://carnivorousplantresource.com/plants/utricularia/utricularia-uniflora/.
