Lesser Bladderwort
Utricularia minor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
2"–6" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 28 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lesser bladderwort is an unusual aquatic plant that floats in shallow water or grows in very wet soil. This tiny carnivorous plant produces small yellow flowers on short stems above the water surface during summer months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lesser 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 standing water or bog conditions
- Extremely unconventional appearance
- May be perceived as pond weeds
Wildlife value
The small yellow flowers attract tiny flying insects, though pollinator information is limited for this specialized aquatic species.
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.
Does Lesser Bladderwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.