Zigzag Bladderwort Utricularia subulata Play pronunciation

Slender bladderwort is a short-lived, native herbaceous perennial that is the most widely distributed species in the Utricularia genus. In North Carolina, it is found in the coastal and sandhills areas and less frequently in the Piedmont and southern mountains. It is a member of the bladderwort family (Lentibulariaceae). The species epithet is Latin for "awl-shaped" and refers to the shape of the forward-pointing nectar spur under the lip of the flower.

It prefers sandy peaty soils that are consistently moist. It is more challenging to grow because it is not a floating aquatic plant. Instead, it grows in wet soils and forms its traps in the spaces between the soil particles. 

This tiny plant is nearly impossible to find until it sends up its small bright yellow flowers. If conditions are good, the flower will be open and attract insects for pollination. If conditions are not ideal, the flowers will remain closed and self-pollinate. The carnivorous bladders are underground and attract microscopic critters for food. The leaves are few and at the base of the plant.

Slender bladderwort would be an asset in a native plant garden or rain garden. 

More information on Utricularia.