ADA Utricularia uliginosa

Utricularia uliginosa is a fascinating carnivorous aquatic plant prized for its ability to form dense, vibrant green carpets in aquascapes. Often referred to as UG, it is a unique and highly sought-after aquatic plant in the world of aquascaping. Usually sold in the aquarium trade under the name Utricularia graminifolia, a name widely recognised by the aquascaping community worldwide.

Belonging to the Lentibulariaceae family, this species is native to wetlands and marshy areas across Asia. Its fine leaves and unique carnivorous nature make it a highly desirable addition to aquariums and terrariums. 

Physical Characteristics:

Leaf Structure: The plant has delicate, grass-like leaves that are bright green and grow in a dense, low-lying pattern. But in sub-optimal light, it can grow loose and tall. The fine texture and vibrant colour give it the appearance of an underwater or terrarium meadow. 

Growth Form: Utricularia uliginosa spreads horizontally via runners, forming a dense carpet over the substrate. Its creeping habit is ideal for foreground planting in aquascapes and for creating lush ground cover in high-humidity terrariums and paludariums.

Carnivorous Nature: This plant has small, bladder-like structures beneath the substrate or in the water. These bladders capture and digest microorganisms, contributing to its carnivorous nature. While fascinating, this behaviour has no noticeable effect on fish, snails or other aquarium and terrarium inhabitants.

Aquarium Requirements:

Lighting: High-intensity lighting is essential for Utricularia uliginosa to thrive. Strong light promotes compact, dense growth and helps maintain its bright green colour, while inadequate light can lead to sparse, leggy growth.

Substrate: A soft, nutrient-poor substrate, such as fine sand or aquasoil, is ideal. Being a carnivorous plant, Utricularia uliginosa does not rely heavily on the substrate for nutrition, but a clean and stable substrate helps its runners establish easily, both underwater and in shallow, waterlogged terrarium setups.

CO2 and Fertilisation: CO2 injection is highly recommended in aquaria, as it enhances growth and ensures a dense carpet formation. While it does not require heavy fertilisation, occasional dosing with micronutrient-rich liquid fertilisers can support healthy development. Avoid excessive nutrients, as this plant prefers nutrient-poor environments and can be outcompeted by algae if conditions are too rich.

Water Parameters: pH: 5.5 to 6.5 (slightly acidic conditions are ideal)

Temperature: 20°C to 26°C

Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is best for this species. Stable, clean water conditions are crucial to prevent algae growth on its delicate leaves.

Propagation: Utricularia uliginosa naturally propagates through runners that spread horizontally. To propagate manually, divide clusters of the plant and replant them in the desired location, ensuring the fine roots and stolons have good contact with the substrate. The same method works in aquaria, paludariums, and very moist terrarium setups.

Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to keep Utricularia uliginosa healthy and looking its best. This includes: Trimming overgrown sections to encourage compact growth and prevent it from overshadowing other plants. Removing algae, which can quickly overwhelm the plant’s delicate leaves if water quality is not maintained. Avoiding excessive nutrient levels that may hinder its growth or promote algae.

Aquascaping and Terrarium Use: Utricularia uliginosa is ideal for creating lush green carpets in the foreground of aquascapes. Its grass-like appearance and vibrant colour provide a natural, meadow-like aesthetic, making it a perfect choice for Iwagumi and nature-style layouts. It also works beautifully as a moist foreground or emergent carpet in high-humidity terrariums and paludariums, where its fine texture contrasts nicely with mosses, ferns, and hardscape. The plant pairs beautifully with rocks and driftwood, adding texture and contrast to both underwater and semi-aquatic designs.

Challenges: While Utricularia uliginosa is visually stunning, it is not beginner-friendly due to its high demands for light, CO2 (in aquaria), and stable water parameters. It is also sensitive to algae, which can inhibit its growth and damage its fine leaves. Maintaining clean water, consistent lighting, and appropriate CO2 levels is essential for success with this plant.

Utricularia uliginosa (often sold under the trade name Utricularia ‘Graminifolia’) is a unique and captivating plant that brings beauty and intrigue to aquascapes, terrariums, and paludariums. Its dense, vibrant green carpets create a stunning visual impact, while its carnivorous nature adds a fascinating element to its biology. Though challenging to grow, dedicated hobbyists who provide the right conditions will be rewarded with a breathtaking natural landscape that showcases the elegance of this remarkable species.

Plants with great success!

Tissue Cultures are very young plants cultivated and delivered directly from the laboratory. The plants are guaranteed to be free from snails, algae and pesticides and, therefore, are harmless for sensitive shrimp and fish.

Success with your aquarium depends largely on the proper plant choice. In a Tissue Culture cup, you are getting many plants that can be divided into small portions and cover a larger area. Plants are compact from the start, so you will experience dense and beautiful growth if you give them the right fertiliser and CO2!

• Carefully take the plant out of the cup and rinse off the growing media.
• To prevent mildew and algae, rinse with chlorine-free water.
  
• Split the plant into 6-8 portions using your fingers or scissors (for small foreground plants).
  
• Plant portions into the substrate using tweezers.
  

Origin
Country or continent where a plant is the most common. Cultivars arise or are bred in cultivation.

Growth Rate
Growth rate of the plant compared to other aquatic plants.

Height
Average height (cm) of the plant after two months in the tank.

Light Demand
The average or medium light demand of an aquarium plant is 0.5 W/L.

CO2 Demand
A medium need in CO2 is 6-14 mg/L. A high demand in CO2 is approx. 15-25 mg/L.