Flatleaf Bladderwort
Utricularia intermedia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, CT, IA and 23 more states
Flatleaf bladderwort is an aquatic carnivorous plant that grows submerged in shallow water or very wet soil. It produces small yellow snapdragon-like flowers on stems that rise above the water surface during summer months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Flatleaf Bladderwort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires specialized aquatic conditions
- Unconventional carnivorous plant may seem too unusual
- Only suitable for water features or bog gardens
Wildlife value
The flowers attract small flying insects and provide nectar for various pollinators. As an aquatic plant, it also supports wetland ecosystems and water-dwelling invertebrates.
Common questions
- How much sun does Flatleaf Bladderwort need?
- Flatleaf Bladderwort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Flatleaf Bladderwort bloom?
- Flatleaf Bladderwort blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Flatleaf Bladderwort native?
- Flatleaf Bladderwort (Utricularia intermedia) is native to CA, CO, CT, IA and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Flatleaf Bladderwort HOA-friendly?
- Flatleaf Bladderwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Flatleaf Bladderwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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