FIELD ID CHARACTERISTICS:
This is the only terrestrial-based bladderwort in North Carolina, nearly always found growing in damp sand or mud. Stem is short - a maximum of about 10 cm tall, with small, bright yellow flowers, usually one flowering at a time.
Synonym(s): Setiscapella cleistogama, Setiscapella subulata, Utricularia cleistogama
Description: Tiny aquatic/terrestrial plant with few basal linear leaves and underground carnivorous bladders. Difficult to notice unless flowering; single main upright flowering stalk.
Leaves: Tiny linear leaves at the base of the stem, often lying on the ground or below water. Stem and flowers are the primary identifying features.
Flowers/Fruit: Small, bright yellow flowers on a short, thin stalk; flowers about 5 mm across. Flowers March to July; fruits shortly after flowering. Tiny (1 mm) globular brown fruits are dry and splitting when ripe.
Habit and Range: This species of Utricularia is the state's only terrestrial bladderwort, growing in mud, sunny edges of pools, wet or damp sand, and shallow ditches. It can also be found in damp places in pine savannas. Found primarily in the Coastal Plain and Sandhills, less frequently in the Piedmont and southern Mountains.
COMMON CONFUSIONS:
Thirteen other Utricularia species occur in North Carolina, none of which are very widespread.
