PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full to partial bright sunlight to support photosynthesis and trap function; avoid deep shade which reduces bloom production
Watering
Requires permanent standing freshwater; maintain clean, well-oxygenated water to prevent bacterial growth
Temperature
Tolerates cool to mild temperate water temperatures; avoid prolonged exposure to water above 28°C as it may impair trap operation
Characteristics
- Leaf: Fine, thread-like submerged leaves with 1–3 mm bladder traps for capturing aquatic invertebrates
- Flower: Yellow, snapdragon-like blooms on upright stems rising 10–30 cm above water
- Stem: Slender, branching floating stems that form dense, tangled mats
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent water level; use an air stone to boost oxygenation in warm weather
Fertilization
No supplemental fertilization required; nutrients are obtained from captured aquatic invertebrates. If grown in extremely nutrient-poor water, add a diluted aquatic plant fertilizer at 1/4 strength once every 6 weeks
Aquarium water change runoff：Use water from monthly freshwater aquarium changes to add gentle nutrients; avoid water with high nitrate levels to prevent algal bloomsPruning
- Trim overgrown stems to reduce overcrowding and improve water circulation
- Remove yellowing or decaying foliage to prevent water fouling and bacterial growth
- Cut back spent flower stems after blooming to redirect energy to trap development
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental aquatic plant for ponds; helps control populations of small aquatic invertebrates
