Utricularia macrorhiza

The largest of the state's bladderworts

Utricularia macrorhiza common bladderwort

Plant grows in the wild/spontaneouslyPlant is native to PA

A common inhabitant of swamps and wetlands, this carnivorous plant is inconspicuous and thus often overlooked.  The underwater stems are leaf-like and highly divided, and flowers that grow above water are yellow, two-lipped with a forward facing spur on the lower lip.  The bladders of bladderwort are used to capture various aquatic organisms.  The hair at the bladder's opening triggers the trap to open when contacted, drawing in water and the organism like a vacuum.  Then, bacteria and enzymes inside the trap aid in digestion.

Grows in swamps, marshes and lakes. 

Present throughout the state.

Wetland codes
EMP: OBL
NCNE: OBL



Flowers June through July.

 

S-rank:  No rank
G-rank:  G5 (Secure)

Utricularia macrorhiza common bladderwort

Plant grows in the wild/spontaneouslyPlant is native to PA
Utricularia macrorhiza gallery
Common Names
common bladderwort