Source: Wikimedia Commons
Aldrovanda Vesiculosa
AdvancedAldrovanda vesiculosa
Called Waterwheel Plant, a floating aquatic carnivore trapping prey without roots while drifting.
About
Aldrovanda vesiculosa, the waterwheel plant, is the sole aquatic member of the family Droseraceae and the closest living relative of the Venus flytrap. It is a free-floating, rootless aquatic plant found in still or slow-moving fresh waters across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, though wild populations have declined dramatically worldwide. Like the Venus flytrap, it captures prey—aquatic microinvertebrates such as water fleas, mosquito larvae, and small crustaceans—using a snap-trap mechanism; the traps close in as little as 20 milliseconds. It is one of the very few fully aquatic carnivorous plants and an object of intense botanical interest.
Lifespan of the Aldrovanda Vesiculosa
The Aldrovanda Vesiculosa lives 5+ years.
Size of the Aldrovanda Vesiculosa
The Aldrovanda Vesiculosa grows to 5-15cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Aldrovanda Vesiculosa
The ideal temperature for the Aldrovanda Vesiculosa is 20〜30℃.
Cultivation is demanding: the plant requires soft, slightly acidic, clean water (pure water or rainwater), strong light, warm temperatures (20–30°C), and sufficient aquatic microorganisms for prey.
Basic Info
Origin
Widely distributed across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia in still and slow-moving freshwater habitats (populations greatly declined globally)
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
5-15cm
Temperature
20〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Aquatic micro organisms
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It has no roots and floats freely in water, so keep it in an outdoor water container that receives strong sunlight. Lack of light causes decline.
Watering
Clean, acidic soft water is essential, so use purified water or rainwater. Avoid tap water and dirty water, and keep the water quality stable.
Temperature & Overwintering
Keep the water at a moderate 20-30°C. Avoid extreme heat or cold and maintain a stable water temperature.
Soil & Repotting
No potting medium or repotting is needed. It grows floating in water, so simply keep the container filled with clean soft water.
Fertilizer
Do not fertilize; it feeds on tiny aquatic animals such as water fleas and mosquito larvae. Maintain water that supports plankton.
Pests & Cautions
It is difficult to grow and quickly declines with dirty water or insufficient light. Keeping water quality, sunlight and temperature stable is the key.
Aldrovanda Vesiculosa FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Aldrovanda Vesiculosa?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Aldrovanda Vesiculosa?
The ideal temperature for Aldrovanda Vesiculosa is 20〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Aldrovanda Vesiculosa?
The average lifespan of Aldrovanda Vesiculosa is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Aldrovanda Vesiculosa get?
The mature size of Aldrovanda Vesiculosa is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Aldrovanda Vesiculosa?
Aldrovanda Vesiculosa: watering & fertilizer — Aquatic micro organisms. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Aldrovanda Vesiculosa?
The price of Aldrovanda Vesiculosa varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Aldrovanda vesiculosa L.
Synonyms: Ruelingia polyphylla Haw., Aldrovanda vesiculosa var. duriaei Casp., Aldrovanda verticillata Roxb., Aldrovanda vesiculosa var. australis Darwin, Talinum polyphyllum (Haw.) Link, Drosera aldrovanda F.Muell., Aldrovanda vesiculosa var. verticillata (Roxb.) Darwin, Anacampseros polyphylla (Haw.) Sweet, Aldrovanda generalis E.H.L.Krause, Aldrovanda vesiculosa var. rubescens A.T.Cross & Adamec
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Aldrovanda is not subject to CITES and is listed as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List (habitats have severely declined globally). It is extinct in the wild in Japan.
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew) / IUCN Red List: Aldrovanda vesiculosa (EN) - assessment PDF
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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