Bladderwort Beauties: Cultivating Utricularia calycifida 'Yog Sethoth' and U. chrysantha

A Delightful Duo: Utricularia calycifida ‘Yog Sethoth’ and U. chrysantha

In the captivating world of carnivorous plants, the genus Utricularia, often called bladderworts, stands out for its unique trapping mechanisms and diverse species. These fascinating plants, found in various habitats worldwide, capture tiny prey using bladder-like traps, making them a must-have for any plant enthusiast. Among the many species, Utricularia calycifida and Utricularia chrysantha are particularly noteworthy for their beautiful blooms and ease of cultivation. Let’s delve into the details of these two remarkable plants, exploring their characteristics, care requirements, and the joys they bring to the avid gardener.

Utricularia calycifida: A Gem of the Bladderworts

Utricularia calycifida, often admired for its delicate beauty, is a terrestrial bladderwort native to tropical Africa. The cultivar ‘Yog Sethoth’ is particularly sought after for its vibrant flower displays. Its name evokes a sense of mystery and the exotic, perfectly complementing the plant’s elegant appearance.

• Appearance: The ‘Yog Sethoth’ cultivar boasts small, rounded leaves that form a low-growing mat. Its true glory, however, lies in its flowers. These blooms, typically lavender or purple with a striking yellow throat, appear on slender, upright stalks. The overall effect is a charming display of color and texture that adds a touch of elegance to any collection.
• Cultivation: Cultivating U. calycifida ‘Yog Sethoth’ is relatively straightforward. It thrives in bright, indirect light, such as an east or west-facing window. The ideal growing medium is a mix of live sphagnum moss and perlite, which provides excellent drainage and aeration. Keeping the substrate consistently moist, but not waterlogged, is crucial. This can be achieved by watering with rainwater or distilled water from the top when the surface begins to dry.
• Bonus Companion: A pleasant surprise may sometimes arise in the form of a bonus plant. The gardener may notice a small climbing fern sprouting in the same pot. This occurrence is a testament to the quality of the growing environment, as the rehydrated sphagnum moss provides a suitable medium for these opportunistic hitchhikers to take root. The presence of these small ferns adds further interest to the display, creating a miniature ecosystem within the pot.

Utricularia chrysantha: The Golden-Flowered Beauty

Utricularia chrysantha, a terrestrial bladderwort, is native to Australia and Southeast Asia, where it thrives in damp, sandy soils. This species is celebrated for its brilliant yellow flowers and adaptability, making it a favorite among carnivorous plant enthusiasts. Its common name, chrysantha, is derived from the Greek words chrysos (gold) and anthos (flower), aptly describing its striking blooms.

• Appearance: This species is characterized by its slender leaves and vibrant yellow flowers. The plant forms a dense mat of foliage, from which the flower stalks emerge. Each stalk is adorned with several golden, often fragrant, blooms. The overall effect is a stunning display of color that brightens any space.
• Cultivation: Utricularia chrysantha is relatively easy to cultivate. Similar to U. calycifida, it thrives in bright, indirect light. A well-draining growing medium, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand, is ideal. This species prefers consistently moist conditions and does not tolerate drying out. Watering with rainwater or distilled water is essential to avoid mineral buildup. Regular feeding with diluted liquid fertilizer designed for carnivorous plants is also beneficial.
• Chasmogamous Flowers: U. chrysantha consistently produces chasmogamous flowers, which are open and fully developed, ensuring successful pollination. These blooms are a testament to the plant’s vigor and its ability to thrive in a cultivated environment. They stand as a beacon of beauty, offering a reliable and consistent display for the enthusiastic gardener.
• Comparison to U. subulata: Many people remark that U. chrysantha is like an ‘upgraded’ version of U. subulata due to its larger, more vibrant flowers and overall robustness. While both species are relatively easy to cultivate, U. chrysantha often produces a more dramatic and rewarding display.

Cultivation Tips for Success

Both U. calycifida and U. chrysantha share similar cultivation requirements, making them ideal companions in a carnivorous plant collection. Here are some tips to ensure their healthy growth and vibrant blooms:

• Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. An east or west-facing window is usually ideal.
• Watering: Use rainwater or distilled water to avoid mineral buildup in the soil. Keep the growing medium consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water from the top when the surface begins to dry, and ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in water.
• Growing Medium: A well-draining mix is essential. A combination of live sphagnum moss and perlite, or peat moss, perlite, and sand, works well. The specific mix can be adjusted based on personal preference and the availability of materials.
• Temperature and Humidity: Both species prefer warm temperatures and high humidity. Aim for temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Increase humidity by placing the pots on a tray of pebbles filled with water, or by using a humidifier. Good air circulation is also important to prevent fungal diseases.
• Feeding: While bladderworts are carnivorous, they are not heavy feeders. They obtain nutrients from the insects they trap in their bladders. Supplemental feeding is not usually necessary, but may be beneficial, especially if the plants are grown indoors, where insect populations are limited. Diluted liquid fertilizer designed for carnivorous plants can be used sparingly. Alternatively, very small amounts of fish flakes can be placed on the surface of the growing medium.
• Repotting: Repot the plants every 1-2 years, or when the growing medium begins to break down. When repotting, carefully remove the plants from their pots, gently loosen the roots, and replant them in fresh growing medium.

Propagation Methods

Propagating bladderworts is a rewarding experience. The most common methods of propagation are:

• Division: This is the easiest method. Simply divide the plant into smaller clumps when repotting. Ensure each division has healthy roots and some foliage. Plant each division in a separate pot with fresh growing medium.
• Leaf Cuttings: Some bladderworts can be propagated from leaf cuttings. Carefully remove a leaf from the plant and place it on the surface of the growing medium. Keep the medium consistently moist, and roots and new growth will develop over time.
• Seed Propagation: This method is more challenging, but can be successful. Collect the seeds from the mature seed pods, and sow them on the surface of the growing medium. Keep the medium consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light.

Common Problems and Solutions

While bladderworts are relatively easy to cultivate, they can be susceptible to certain problems. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

• Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, insufficient light, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust the watering schedule, provide adequate light, and consider using a diluted liquid fertilizer.
• Fungal Diseases: High humidity and poor air circulation can lead to fungal diseases, such as mold or mildew. Improve air circulation by providing adequate spacing between plants and ensure that the growing environment is not overly humid. Treat fungal infections with a fungicide designed for plants.
• Pests: Bladderworts are generally pest-resistant, but they can be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Inspect the plants regularly for pests, and treat them with insecticidal soap or a suitable pesticide.

Conclusion: A Rewarding Experience

Utricularia calycifida ‘Yog Sethoth’ and U. chrysantha are a delightful addition to any collection of carnivorous plants. Their unique appearance, ease of cultivation, and beautiful blooms make them a joy to grow. By providing the proper conditions, the dedicated gardener can enjoy the beauty and fascination of these remarkable plants for years to come. The bonus of an unexpected companion further enhances the overall experience, creating a small, self-sustaining ecosystem within the confines of a pot. Cultivating these plants is not merely a hobby, but a journey into the fascinating world of carnivorous plants.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a beginner, these bladderworts are an excellent choice. With a bit of care and attention, these plants will reward you with their striking blooms and unique charm. So, embrace the challenge and the pleasure of cultivating these delightful carnivorous plants.