Utricularia inflata, commonly known as the swollen bladderwort, inflated bladderwort, or large floating bladderwort, is a large suspended aquatic carnivorous plant that belongs to the genus Utricularia. It is a perennial that is native to the southeastern coastal plains of the United States. It has often been confused with U. radiata, which is similar but smaller than U. inflata. Since 1980, U. inflata has been reported to exist in locations beyond its traditional range, such as the Adirondack Mountains in New York, southeastern Massachusetts, and in Washington State. Studies on the populations in the Adirondacks suggest that an introduction of U. inflata to a location where it naturalizes can lead to altered sediment chemistry by reducing the net primary productivity of native species. It is also listed by the state of Washington as a problematic species because of the dense mat-forming habit of this aquatic Utricularia. It is one of the few carnivorous plants that can be invasive.
Swollen bladderwort has moderate resistance to disease and needs a high-humidity environment. However, poor ventilation can leave it vulnerable to rot. Its care is considered difficult because it requires constant humidification to keep humidity levels high. The plant is also highly prone to rot if the surroundings are poorly ventilated and too warm. Swollen bladderwort is appropriate for growers with more experience who can provide a suitable growing environment.
How to keep Utricularia Inflata.
Light
Swollen bladderwort grows best in full sunlight, which is crucial for its healthy development. Native to habitats with abundant sun, it does well but cannot tolerate shade. Both too little and too much sunlight can impair its growth and health.
Water
Swollen bladderwort flourishes in consistently moist aquatic environments, preferring saturated soils and occasional submersion. To maintain the necessary moisture, it's recommended to water it twice a week. This hardy plant adapts well to seasonal changes in water levels, enduring both heavy rain and temporary dry spells.
Temperature
The swollen bladderwort originates from habitats with temperatures between 41 and 95 °F (5 to 35 ℃). It does best in moderate temperatures. To mimic these conditions, keep the plant in a cool spot in winter and a warm spot in summer.
Pruning
Swollen bladderwort is known for its underwater bladder traps and benefits greatly from pruning in early spring. By trimming away dead or overgrown leaves, you can enhance the flow of sunlight and oxygen, which supports the plant's growth. Always use clean, sharp tools during pruning to prevent infection, ensuring a balanced habitat and promoting vigorous growth.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Swollen bladderwort, choose a pot 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, ensuring the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place it in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Utricularia
- Family
- Lentibulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-9
- Mature Height
- 0 m to 2.44 m
- Mature Spread
- 15 cm to 25 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Fall
Other names.
Reader questions.
What are the sunlight requirements for Swollen Bladderwort?
Swollen Bladderwort thrives best in full sun, requiring above 6 hours of sunlight for optimal growth. Originating from environments accustomed to ample sunlight, this plant adapts well but cannot tolerate shade. Insufficient or excessive exposure to sunlight might hinder its growth and health. It's essential to watch the sunlight movement through your garden to choose spots providing the perfect balance of light and shade for the plants, ensuring their happiness.
What is the native temperature range for Swollen Bladderwort?
Swollen bladderwort thrives in environments where temperatures range from 41 to 95 °F (5 to 35 °C), performing best in intermediate temperatures. To mimic its native conditions, it is recommended to keep the plant in a cool place during the winter and in a warmer spot throughout the summer. Maintaining temperatures above 5°C during the winter is beneficial to avoid stunting its growth, with the minimum temperature kept above the freezing point to prevent damage.
How does artificial lighting support Swollen Bladderwort growth indoors?
Indoor Swollen Bladderwort plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth, especially when natural sunlight is insufficient, like in winter or less sunny spaces. Artificial lights are a vital solution in such cases, promoting faster, healthier growth. LEDs are a popular choice because they offer customizable wavelengths specific to plant needs. The amount of artificial light needed varies: full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants require 10-20W/sq ft. Artificial lights should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant, mimicking natural sunlight, and provided for 8-12 hours per day.
How should Swollen Bladderwort be protected from low temperature conditions?
Swollen bladderwort has a moderate tolerance to low temperatures, thriving best between 5°C and 35°C. It is vital to keep the plant above -25°C during winter. Exposure to temperatures below -30°C can cause the leaves to darken, with severe cold resulting in water-soaked necrosis, wilting, and drooping, as the leaves gradually turn brown. To protect the plant, frost-damaged parts should be trimmed away, and it may be necessary to move it indoors to a warmer environment or set up a makeshift greenhouse. If moved indoors, placing the plant near a south-facing window will ensure it receives enough sunlight. Supplemental lighting can be used if natural light is insufficient.
What are common symptoms of light deficiency in Swollen Bladderwort?
Symptoms of light deficiency in Swollen Bladderwort include smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or no new growth, lighter-colored new leaves indicating a lack of chlorophyll, chlorosis (yellowing leaves), sunscald on leaves or stems from intense sunlight exposure, leaf curling as a defense against excessive sunlight, wilting from increased water loss, and leaf scorching with brown, dry edges due to excessive sun.
What measures should be taken if Swollen Bladderwort is exposed to high temperatures?
During the summer, it is important to ensure that Swollen bladderwort's surrounding temperature does not exceed 35°C. If temperatures rise above 38°C, the plant's growth may slow, its leaves may lighten in color, and it becomes more prone to sunburn. To mitigate damage from high temperatures, sunburned and dried parts of the plant should be trimmed off. Relocating the plant to a shaded area, particularly away from the afternoon sun, and ensuring it is watered in the morning and evening will help keep the soil moist and the plant healthy.
How can I address insufficient sunlight exposure for Swollen Bladderwort?
To address insufficient sunlight for Swollen Bladderwort, gradually move your plants to sunnier locations each week to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. For indoor plants, use a south-facing window or consider artificial lighting like desk or ceiling lamps on for at least 8 hours daily or invest in professional plant grow lights. For outdoor plants, avoid sudden changes in light intensity which may cause sunburn. Also, observe and reduce obstructions blocking sunlight by pruning or transplanting to sunnier locations with good drainage.
