Sanderson's bladderwort Utricularia sandersonii
ABOUT
Utricularia sandersonii, commonly known as Sanderson's bladderwort, is a unique and fascinating small perennial carnivorous plant. It is characterized by its bright green, slender, and finely divided leaves which form a dense, mat-like foliage. These leaves often appear softly textured and may create a lush ground cover. The bladderwort boasts an array of small, bladder-like traps that are submerged within the soil or water, ingeniously designed to capture and digest tiny prey like protozoans and other microorganisms. The most striking feature of Sanderson's bladderwort is its delicate flowers. They typically bloom into charming, two-lipped blossoms which are predominantly white with a touch of violet or blue, and they often display intricate patterns or markings. The flowers resemble little faces or bunnies, which makes them particularly endearing to many plant enthusiasts. These charming blooms are supported by thin, thread-like stalks that rise above the plant's foliage, giving them a dainty and airy appearance. The overall aesthetic of Sanderson's bladderwort is one of whimsical beauty, combined with a subtle ferocity due to its carnivorous nature.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Sanderson's Bladderwort, Blue-Eyed Grass, Falling Stars, Fairy Aprons
Common names
Utricularia sandersonii
ToxicityTo humans
Bluebell Bladderwort (Utricularia sandersonii) is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning because it is not considered a poisonous plant. Ingesting any part of this plant is unlikely to have toxic consequences for humans.
To pets
Bluebell Bladderwort (Utricularia sandersonii) is also not known to be toxic to pets. There are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from this plant for pets such as cats or dogs, and ingesting it is unlikely to result in toxic effects for them as well.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Utricularia sandersonii, commonly known as Sanderson's bladderwort, has unique and attractive flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and indoor spaces.
- Insectivorous trait: This plant is carnivorous, trapping small insects and microorganisms, which can help control pest populations without the use of chemical insecticides.
- Low maintenance: Sanderson's bladderwort is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once the proper growing conditions are met.
- Education and research: It can be used for educational purposes to study carnivorous plant mechanisms and behaviors, as well as for scientific research due to its interesting feeding habits.
- Habitat diversity: By growing Utricularia sandersonii, gardeners can contribute to biodiversity, providing a habitat for certain species that coexist with carnivorous plants.
- Conservation: Cultivating Sanderson's bladderwort can aid in the conservation of this species, especially if its natural habitat is under threat.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ornamental Aquarium Plant: Utricularia sandersonii can be grown underwater in aquariums, adding a unique and interesting feature to the aquatic environment.
- Photography Subject: Due to its delicate flowers and interesting trapping mechanism, it is often used by macro photographers to capture the beauty and intricacy of the plant up close.
- Educational Tool: Botanists and science teachers may use Utricularia sandersonii to demonstrate carnivorous plant mechanisms and adaptations to students.
- Craft Inspiration: The unique appearance of the Utricularia sandersonii, especially when in bloom, can inspire artists and crafters in creating botanical illustrations, jewelry, and other handmade items.
- Science Experiments: Researchers use Utricularia sandersonii to conduct experiments related to plant carnivory, nutrient absorption, and ecological interactions within its habitat.
- Culinary Decoration: Though not commonly used and not known for edibility, its attractive blooms can be used for garnishing and decorating food dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
- Terrariums: Utricularia sandersonii can be included in terrarium setups, especially where high humidity and low nutrient substrates replicate their natural boggy habitats.
- Water Garden Feature: This aquatic plant can be added to outdoor water gardens to provide a natural filtration system and add to the biodiversity of the garden pond.
- Floristry: The flowers of Utricularia sandersonii may occasionally be used by florists in crafting unusual and distinctive floral arrangements.
- Insect Study: Entomologists might utilize Utricularia sandersonii to observe the types of insects it captures and to study the interactions between the plant and its prey.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Blue Anther is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Innocence: Utricularia sandersonii, commonly known as Sanderson's bladderwort, has a delicate and innocent appearance, which can symbolize purity and naivety.
- Patience and Timing: This carnivorous plant captures its prey with specialized bladder traps. This symbolizes the importance of patience and waiting for the right moment.
- Adaptability: Sanderson's bladderwort thrives in various growing conditions, symbolizing versatility and the ability to adapt to changing environments.
- Unassuming Beauty: Despite being a carnivorous plant, Sanderson's bladderwort has unassuming, beautiful flowers, reminding us that beauty often lies in simplicity and humility.
- Mystery and Surprise: As a carnivorous plant, it holds an element of surprise and the unknown, representing the mysterious aspects of nature and life.
- Resourcefulness: The plant’s ability to capture its own nutrients in nutrient-poor environments symbolizes resourcefulness and making the most out of difficult situations.
WaterThe Blue-Eyed Grass should be kept constantly moist, so watering should be frequent, especially during growing seasons like spring and summer. It thrives in wet conditions, hence the soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. It is recommended to water the plant every few days, about twice a week, with approximately 4-6 ounces of water each time, depending on the size of the pot and the environmental conditions. During winter or dormancy, reduce watering to once a week or whenever the soil surface starts to dry.
LightBlue-Eyed Grass prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sunlight. It should not be placed in full, harsh afternoon sun, which can burn its leaves. An ideal spot would be a windowsill that receives some direct sun in the morning with shade as the day progresses, or a brightly lit room without direct sunlight.
TemperatureThe Blue-Eyed Grass appreciates a warm environment, thriving best in temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While this plant does well in regular household temperatures, it can survive short periods of time in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it should be protected from temperatures below 50 degrees to avoid damage to the plant.
PruningPruning the Blue-Eyed Grass is generally not required, but dead or yellowing leaves should be removed to maintain its aesthetic and prevent potential rot. This can be done as needed throughout the year. Nipping off old flowers after they fade can encourage more blooms. The best time for any significant pruning, if necessary, is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSanderson's Blue is a carnivorous plant that thrives in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite or sand in equal parts; its soil pH should be acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5.
RepottingSanderson's Blue generally needs repotting every one to two years, or when the growth medium begins to decompose or break down.
Humidity & MistingSanderson's Blue prefers high humidity levels, typically between 70% and 90%, to thrive and develop its characteristic traps.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light; maintain high humidity; water with distilled water.
Outdoor
Partial shade, protect from direct sun, keep moist, high humidity.
Hardiness zone
10-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Utricularia sandersonii, commonly known as Sanderson's bladderwort, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in warm, wet conditions, typically in moss or damp soil. The seedlings develop into small, carnivorous, perennial plants with numerous, small, root-like structures and bladder traps submerged in the water or wet substrate. These traps capture small organisms, which the plant digests to supplement its nutrient intake. The plant produces small, green leaves and, under appropriate conditions, blooms with distinctive white or light blue flowers resembling bunny faces, usually during spring or summer. After pollination, which is often aided by insects, the plant sets seed that matures, is dispersed by water or other means, and can remain viable in the soil for extended periods. Utricularia sandersonii enters dormancy during unfavorable conditions, typically in the form of turions or resting buds, from which it can regrow when the environment becomes conducive again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The common name for Utricularia sandersonii is the Sanderson's bladderwort, and it can be propagated effectively during spring and summer when the plant is in its active growth phase. The most popular method of propagation for this plant is by division. This involves gently separating the plant’s stolons, which are the thin, stem-like structures that run above or just beneath the soil surface, each with a few bladders and leaves, and then replanting them into a fresh carnivorous plant soil mix. It is important to keep the new divisions well-hydrated but not waterlogged, providing appropriate humidity and indirect sunlight. Within a few weeks, these divisions should establish themselves and begin to grow, eventually developing into full plants.
