Source: Wikimedia Commons
Utricularia Reniformis
IntermediateUtricularia reniformis
A South American epiphytic bladderwort with large kidney-shaped leaves and purple flowers.
Overview
Utricularia reniformis is an epiphytic bladderwort native to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil (particularly around Rio de Janeiro state), growing on moist mossy rocks and in humid, humus-rich soil in the rainforest understory. Its most distinctive feature is its relatively large, kidney-shaped (reniform) leaves—among the most prominent above-ground foliage of any Utricularia—which have led some growers to appreciate it as much for its ornamental foliage as for its biology. The large, purple to pale violet flowers are also impressive. Microscopic traps in the root system capture soil microorganisms. Cold tolerance is minimal; greenhouse culture is standard in temperate regions.
Lifespan of the Utricularia Reniformis
The Utricularia Reniformis lives 5+ years.
Size of the Utricularia Reniformis
The Utricularia Reniformis grows to 10-25cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Utricularia Reniformis
The ideal temperature for the Utricularia Reniformis is 20〜28℃.
Cultivation requires warm, humid conditions (20–28°C), consistently moist sphagnum or humus-rich media, bright indirect light, and pure or rainwater.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeastern Brazil (Rio de Janeiro state and surrounding areas), Atlantic Forest, moist rock faces and humus-rich soils
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
10-25cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Micro insects
Growing Tips
Temperature & Overwintering
Needs warm, humid conditions at 20-28°C. It is cold sensitive, so greenhouse culture is the norm.
Watering
Use pure or rain water and keep the medium constantly moist. A tray or a fairly enclosed container helps hold the high humidity it needs.
Soil & Repotting
Use moist pure sphagnum or a humus-rich medium. As an epiphyte it needs aeration, so do not pack the medium tightly.
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light to weak direct sun suits it. Avoid strong direct sun, which damages the 10-25 cm kidney-shaped leaves.
Propagation
It spreads by underground stems, so divide at repotting. Divisions establish when set on moist sphagnum.
Utricularia Reniformis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Utricularia Reniformis?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Utricularia Reniformis?
The ideal temperature for Utricularia Reniformis is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Utricularia Reniformis?
The average lifespan of Utricularia Reniformis is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Utricularia Reniformis get?
The mature size of Utricularia Reniformis is 10-25cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Utricularia Reniformis?
Utricularia Reniformis: watering & fertilizer — Micro insects. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Utricularia Reniformis?
The price of Utricularia Reniformis 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 reniformis A.St.-Hil.
Synonyms: Utricularia maxima Weber ex Benj., Utricularia janthina Hook.f., Utricularia reniformis f. minor Luetzelb., Utricularia reniformis var. kromeri Ule
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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