Source: Wikimedia Commons
Utricularia Livida
BeginnerUtricularia livida
A terrestrial bladderwort with many pale purple flowers, hardy and spreading like ground cover.
About
Utricularia livida is a terrestrial bladderwort native to southern Africa (South Africa, Lesotho) and also naturalized in parts of Mexico. It produces an abundance of small pale purple to white flowers on erect scapes, and spreads vigorously to form low, ground-cover-like mats under suitable conditions. Like other terrestrial Utricularia, its microscopic Y-shaped suction traps in the soil capture protozoans, nematodes, and other microorganisms. It is widely regarded as one of the best introductory bladderworts, combining ease of cultivation with attractive, freely produced flowers.
Lifespan of the Utricularia Livida
The Utricularia Livida lives 5+ years.
Size of the Utricularia Livida
The Utricularia Livida grows to 2-5cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Utricularia Livida
The ideal temperature for the Utricularia Livida is 15〜30℃.
The species is exceptionally tolerant of varied conditions, adapting to a wide temperature range (15–30°C) and growing readily in sphagnum or peat-perlite media with tray watering and bright light.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern Africa (South Africa, Lesotho) and naturalized in parts of Mexico, moist rocky habitats and wetland margins
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
2-5cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Micro insects
Growing Tips
Watering
Tray-water to keep it constantly moist with pure or rain water. As long as it never dries out it is tough and forgiving for beginners.
Soil & Repotting
Use moist pure sphagnum or peat moss with perlite. It spreads to cover the surface, so a shallow, wide pot suits it.
Light & Placement
Likes bright indirect to direct light. With enough light it flowers freely and spreads into a ground cover.
Temperature & Overwintering
Adapts to a wide 15-30°C range. Avoid extreme cold and it can be grown the same way year-round.
Propagation
Extremely vigorous, spreading until it covers the surface. Divide when crowded; pieces establish simply set on moist medium.
Utricularia Livida FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Utricularia Livida?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Utricularia Livida?
The ideal temperature for Utricularia Livida is 15〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Utricularia Livida?
The average lifespan of Utricularia Livida is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Utricularia Livida get?
The mature size of Utricularia Livida is 2-5cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Utricularia Livida?
Utricularia Livida: watering & fertilizer — Micro insects. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Utricularia Livida?
The price of Utricularia Livida 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: Utricularia livida E.Mey.
Synonyms: Utricularia elevata var. macowanii Kamieński, Utricularia afromontana R.E.Fr., Utricularia madagascariensis A.DC., Utricularia sematophora Stapf, Utricularia spartioides Scott Elliot ex H.Perrier, Utricularia gentryi Standl., Utricularia livida var. pauciflora Kamieński, Utricularia lobata Fernald, Utricularia livida var. engleri (Kamieński) Stapf, Utricularia sprengelii var. humilis Kamieński, Utricularia livida var. micrantha Kamieński, Utricularia spartea Baker
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO · ICPS cultivar registration (International Carnivorous Plant Society)
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
This genus is not listed in CITES Appendices (among carnivorous plants, only Nepenthes/Sarracenia/Dionaea are subject to CITES).
Sources: CITES Appendices (carnivorous plants) - ICPS/Barry Rice / CITES & Carnivorous Plant Checklist (RBG Kew)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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