Bladderworts (Utricularia)
				Utricularia sandersonii
		Bladderworts (Greek for "Little sac's") are arguably the most beautiful and complex of all the carnivorous plants. Nothing, except for the ability to photosynthesize makes them a close relative to other flowering plants. They are the largest and most widespread species of carnivorous plants. At last count, there were over 214 species of this plant. Bladderworts occupy every continent of the world except for the frozen Arctic regions and the Oceanic Islands. Most people are intrigued by the flowers they produce and find it hard to believe that they are carnivorous. Some species flower almost year round and resemble miniature orchids. Unlike all ofther carnivorous plants, the bladderwort's traps are found under the surface of the soil. Peppered along the plant's stems and underground structures are tiny bladder-like traps. The traps are on average the size of a pinhead. Prey is typically captured in as little as 10-15  thousandths of a second! Outside the bladder's (trap) door are several long filiament like hairs that usually form a tunnel toward the bladder's door. Typical prey are paramecium and waterflea larvae. These prey brush against the hairs causing the trap to open rapidly, sucking water (and the prey) inside. After the trap is full, water is pumped out within minutes and a mucilage seal makes the bladder a watertight vacuum. Nutrients from the prey are then extracted and undigestible parts are removed and the trap is reset. Soil and Water Conditions: Bladderworts do well in a mix of one part sphagnum peat moss to one part superfine horticultural grade perlite. A light fertilizer like Miracid, diluted 1/4 strength applied monthly during the growing season is helpful. However, fertilizers also encourage the growth of algae. If you experience an overgrowth of algae, just scrape it off. I have found that the algae doesnt harm the plant unless it begins to overgrow it. Like other carnivorous plants, terrestrial (land-growing) Utricularia has evolved to grow in soil that is acidic and devoid of dissolved minerals and salts. Tap water from municipal and well sources is high in harmful minerals and salts. These are too rich for your plant. So, instead, use distilled water. Plant in drained pots, put the pots in a tray containing distilled water. Keep them sitting in at least an inch of water. Most species appreciate being waterlogged and will not thrive unless kept really wet. Light: Most species do not require full sun conditions. A south facing windowsill will work fine as long as it doesnt get too hot. Utricularia do not like temperatures above 75-80 degrees. Your plant will begin to wilt back and die if exposed to higher temps. If this happens remove it to a cooler place with filtered light. During periods of flowering give 12-16 hours of sunlight. Gro-lux fluorescent bulbs work great if they are positioned 6" above the top of the plants. Metal halide lamps are too warm and will kill your Utricularia Utricularia sandersonii A native of South Africa, this species flowers nearly year-round and is popular because of its orchid-like flowers. Each flower resembles an angry bunny's head. The white version of this plant flowers prolifically nearly year round and has 6-12 flowers per scape. A blue version blooms only occasionally and usually has only one wide bluish-purple flower. This plant does well on a windowsill in an undrained pot. Utricularia dichotoma: An Australian species with tall purple flowers. It appreciates frost-free waterlogged conditions and only flowers occasionally.