Lavender Bladderwort Utricularia livida
ABOUT
Utricularia livida, commonly known as the Lavender Bladderwort, is a unique and visually appealing carnivorous plant. In appearance, its foliage displays a dainty blend of light green hues formed by small, delicate leaves that create a subtle and soft texture. The leaves, often overlaying each other, may appear slightly translucent, adding to the plant's ethereal charm. The Lavender Bladderwort produces vibrant blooms that can best be described as miniature snapdragon-like flowers. These blossoms are characterized by a beautiful lavender color, with a striking yellow center that creates a vivid contrast against the lighter petals. The flowers tend to rise above the foliage on slender, thread-like stalks seeming to float above the leaves, providing a splash of color that is particularly eye-catching. The plant is a marvel not just for its carnivorous nature but also for its intricate and fine-rooted system, which is quite adept at trapping tiny aquatic microorganisms. Overall, its distinctive carnivorous habit and attractive florals make the Lavender Bladderwort a fascinating specimen in the world of plants.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lentibulariaceae
Synonyms
Blue Lips, Lavender Bladderwort
Common names
Utricularia livida.
ToxicityTo humans
Utricularia livida, commonly known as the "lavender bladderwort," is not known to be toxic to humans. This carnivorous plant primarily feeds on small aquatic invertebrates and does not pose a risk if ingested. There are no reported symptoms of poisoning from consuming Utricularia livida.
To pets
Utricularia livida, which is better known as "lavender bladderwort," is not known to be toxic to pets either. This plant captures tiny water animals for nutrients rather than relying on mammalian systems for survival, so there are no known toxic substances that would cause harm to pets if accidentally ingested. No symptoms of poisoning have been reported from pets consuming parts of lavender bladderwort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
0.16 feet (5 cm)
Spread
0.16 feet (5 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem support: Utricularia livida, commonly known as Lavender Bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant that plays a role in aquatic ecosystems by controlling insect populations.
- Natural pest control: By capturing and digesting small aquatic invertebrates, this plant can help reduce the number of pests in the water bodies it inhabits.
- Biodiversity: As a carnivorous plant, Utricularia livida adds to the biodiversity of the habitats where it occurs, providing unique niches for various organisms.
- Ornamental value: With its striking flowers and interesting bladder traps, Lavender Bladderwort is sometimes cultivated for its aesthetic appeal in water gardens and as a curiosity in botanical collections.
- Education and research: This species is of interest to botanists and biologists studying carnivorous plant mechanisms, evolution, and ecosystem dynamics, making it valuable for educational purposes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Aquarium adornment: Utricularia livida can be grown in aquariums to provide a natural, aesthetically pleasing environment for aquatic life.
- Insect control: This bladderwort traps and digests tiny aquatic organisms, aiding in controlling mosquito larvae and other small aquatic pests.
- Education: This plant can be used in biological studies to demonstrate carnivorous plant mechanisms and adaptations.
- Scientific research: Researchers study U. livida to understand more about plant digestion processes and nutrient absorption from prey.
- Photography subject: Due to its delicate flowers, U. livida is often used by photographers to capture the beauty of carnivorous plants.
- Biological indicator: The presence of U. livida in the wild can serve as an indicator of water quality and ecosystem health.
- Horticultural curiosity: Gardeners may cultivate U. livida as a unique addition to greenhouse collections that specialize in carnivorous plants.
- Art: Some artists use the intricate forms of U. livida as inspiration or actual components in botanical art pieces.
- Water garden feature: This plant can be incorporated into outdoor ponds and water gardens to add diversity and interest.
- Nature conservation: U. livida can be a focus for plant conservation efforts, especially in areas where its natural habitat is endangered.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Blue Lips is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Blue Lips is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Adaptability: Utricularia livida, commonly known as Blue Lips, is a carnivorous plant that has developed intricate methods to trap and digest small aquatic prey. Its capacity to adapt and thrive in nutrient-poor environments symbolizes the idea of adaptability and innovative survival.
- Ingeniousness: The sophisticated trapping mechanisms of Blue Lips reflect intellectual creativity and problem-solving skills. It symbolizes the ability to devise clever solutions in challenging situations.
- Patience: As a carnivorous plant, Utricularia livida requires patience to attract and secure its prey. The plant embodies the virtue of patience and the notion that good things come to those who wait.
- Mystery: The hidden traps of the Blue Lips and its generally inconspicuous nature in the wild suggest an air of mystery and fascination, pointing to the unseen depths of character or knowledge.
WaterLavender Bladderwort should be watered regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ideally, it should sit in a few inches of water to replicate its natural boggy habitat. Use distilled or rainwater, as tap water can be harmful due to minerals and chlorine content. Aim to add about 8-16 ounces of water weekly, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. It's important not to let the soil dry out completely, so check the moisture level frequently.
LightLavender Bladderwort thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight, especially in the morning. Avoid placing it in full afternoon sun, which may be too intense. A north-facing or east-facing windowsill is an ideal spot for this plant, where it can receive gentle sunlight without the risk of scorching its foliage.
TemperatureLavender Bladderwort prefers a temperature range of 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can survive temporary dips in temperature down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure to cold can be detrimental. Ensure the plant is kept away from drafts and sources of extreme heat or cold to maintain the ideal temperature conditions.
PruningPruning Lavender Bladderwort is generally done to remove spent blooms and dead foliage, which encourages healthy growth and blooming. Trim off these parts as needed, usually after flowering has finished. There is no specific schedule for pruning this plant, but periodic examination for dead or decaying material can determine when it's time to tidy it up.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Utricularia livida, also known as Lavender Bladderwort, is a mix of peat and perlite or sand in equal parts. This light mix allows for proper water retention and aeration. The ideal soil pH for Lavender Bladderwort should be slightly acidic, around 5.5 to 6.5.
RepottingLavender Bladderwort should be repotted every year to refresh the soil and remove any mineral build-up. This frequent repotting supports their growth as they prefer nutrient-poor conditions.
Humidity & MistingLavender Bladderwort thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 50% to 80%. Consistent high humidity is crucial for their growth and carnivorous function.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright light, sit in shallow water, high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in damp, acidic soil; part sun to light shade.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleUtricularia livida, also known as the Lavender Bladderwort, begins its life as a seed, often dispersed by water movements or animals. After seed germination, it develops into a small, free-floating carnivorous plant with feathery submerged leaves, equipped with tiny bladders that trap and digest small aquatic organisms. The plant grows and spreads vegetatively through stolons, branching out to colonize new areas. It undergoes asexual reproduction through root fragments and stolons, as well as sexual reproduction when it flowers, typically producing delicate, lavender-colored blooms that are pollinated by insects. Once pollinated, the flowers develop into seed pods that burst open when ripe, starting the life cycle anew. Throughout its life, Utricularia livida undergoes seasonal dormancy, where growth significantly slows down or stops during colder temperatures or in response to a lack of water.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Utricularia livida, commonly known as the Lavender Bladderwort, is a carnivorous plant that can be propagated effectively through leaf cuttings. This method is especially popular among enthusiasts due to its simplicity and high success rate. To propagate by leaf cuttings, select a healthy leaf from an established Utricularia livida plant during its active growth period, typically spring or early summer. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or a knife, cut the leaf into sections, each with a portion of the leaf and, importantly, some of the stalk. Place the cuttings on the surface of a moist carnivorous plant soil mix or on a bed of long-fibered sphagnum moss, ensuring high humidity and warm temperatures around 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 24 degrees Celsius). The cuttings should not be buried but rather laid on the surface allowing them to form roots and eventually grow into new individual plants, a process that may take several weeks.
