Source: Wikimedia Commons
Utricularia Sandersonii
BeginnerUtricularia sandersonii
A terrestrial bladderwort with rabbit-face-like flowers, vigorous and easy to grow.
About
Utricularia sandersonii, the rabbit bladderwort, is a terrestrial carnivorous plant native to South Africa. Its common name derives from the distinctive flowers, which resemble a rabbit's face with two elongated upper petals forming the 'ears.' The plant is deceptively simple in appearance—only tiny leaves and flower stalks are visible above the surface—but the subterranean portions bear numerous microscopic, Y-shaped suction traps (utricles) that capture small soil organisms such as protozoans and nematodes. It is extraordinarily vigorous, spreading to form dense colonies under suitable conditions. It is one of the easiest bladderworts for beginners.
Lifespan of the Utricularia Sandersonii
The Utricularia Sandersonii lives 5+ years.
Size of the Utricularia Sandersonii
The Utricularia Sandersonii grows to 2-5cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Utricularia Sandersonii
The ideal temperature for the Utricularia Sandersonii is 15〜28℃.
Cultivation requires consistently moist, acidic media (sphagnum or peat-perlite), tray watering with pure or rainwater, bright indirect to moderate direct light, and temperatures of 15–28°C.
Basic Info
Origin
South Africa, moist rocky outcrops and wetland margins
Lifespan
5+ years
Size
2-5cm
Temperature
15〜28℃
Humidity
60〜90%
Watering & Fertilizer
Micro insects (auto-capture)
Growing Tips
Watering
Tray-water to keep it constantly moist with pure or rain water. Never letting it dry out is the key; it is otherwise sturdy and easy.
Soil & Repotting
Use moist pure sphagnum or peat moss with perlite. It spreads to blanket the surface, so a shallow, wide pot suits it.
Light & Placement
Prefers bright indirect light to weak direct sun. In a bright spot the small rabbit-shaped flowers keep coming.
Temperature & Overwintering
Grows at 15-28°C. Avoid extremes of cold and heat and it can be kept indoors on much the same routine all year.
Propagation
Extremely vigorous, spreading until it blankets the surface. Divide when crowded; pieces establish simply set on moist medium.
Utricularia Sandersonii FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Utricularia Sandersonii?
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 Sandersonii?
The ideal temperature for Utricularia Sandersonii is 15〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Utricularia Sandersonii?
The average lifespan of Utricularia Sandersonii is 5+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Utricularia Sandersonii get?
The mature size of Utricularia Sandersonii is 2-5cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Utricularia Sandersonii?
Utricularia Sandersonii: watering & fertilizer — Micro insects (auto-capture). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Utricularia Sandersonii?
The price of Utricularia Sandersonii 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 sandersonii Oliv.
Synonyms: Utricularia sandersonii var. treubii (Kamieński) Kamieński, Utricularia treubii Kamieński
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
Related Articles
How to Grow Utricularia: Cultivation Methods by Aquatic and Terrestrial Types
We explain how to grow Utricularia by aquatic and terrestrial types. We provide detailed information on the mechanism of traps (bladders), recommended varieties, soil and watering management methods, and tips for getting plants to bloom.
Carnivorous Plant Dormancy Awakening Guide | Correct Timing for Resuming Feeding, Fertilizing, and Watering
A step-by-step guide to the correct timing for resuming watering, restoring humidity, feeding, and fertilizing as your carnivorous plants emerge from dormancy and enter spring growth.
Why Carnivorous Plant Traps Fail and How to Fix Them | Optimizing Humidity, Nutrition, and Prey-Capture Systems
Investigate why carnivorous plant traps fail to capture insects. From humidity management to nutrient balance, gland secretion function, and dormancy, a detailed scientific approach to restoring trap function.
A Guide to Giving Carnivorous Plants as Gifts | How to Choose Unique Presents and Tips for Long-Term Enjoyment
A guide to selecting carnivorous plants as gifts. Covers how to choose varieties based on the recipient's type, and important care tips to communicate before gifting, such as water quality and dormancy periods.
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.