Utricularia sandersonii var. Blue Flower
Angry Bunny Bladderwort (Blue Form)
Utricularia sandersonii var. Blue Flower, affectionately nicknamed the Angry Bunny Bladderwort, is a charming and fast-growing terrestrial carnivorous plant known for its tiny, whimsical blooms. The bluish-violet flowers bear an uncanny resemblance to the face of a cartoon rabbit mid-protest—complete with upright ears and a tiny “snarl” that has made it a favorite among collectors.
This variety spreads quickly via underground runners, forming a dense mat of bright green, moss-like foliage that thrives in high humidity and moist, acidic soil. While the flowers are the star of the show, its hidden traps—tiny bladder-like structures beneath the soil—quietly capture microscopic soil organisms, helping the plant thrive in nutrient-poor environments.
Care Guide
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Light: Bright, indirect light to partial shade. Avoid harsh direct sun, which can dry out the foliage.
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Water: Keep soil consistently wet using only distilled, rain, or reverse osmosis water. Best grown sitting in a shallow tray of water.
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Humidity: Prefers high humidity (60–90%). Performs best in terrariums, covered trays, or greenhouses.
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Temperature: Cool to intermediate temperatures (55–75°F) are ideal. Tolerates occasional heat if humidity remains high.
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Soil: Plant in a nutrient-free mix such as peat moss and sand or fine perlite. Avoid any fertilizer.
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Fertilizer: Not needed and generally not recommended. Will feed on microscopic prey in the soil.
Blooms
This variety produces abundant, cartoon-like blue flowers throughout the year when grown in stable conditions, especially in high humidity with bright, indirect light. It may bloom intermittently in cycles, with peak flowering often occurring in spring and late summer. Flowers are held on thin stems above the foliage, creating a cloud of “bunny ears” in miniature.
How to Grow Indoors (San Francisco)
Ideal for terrariums, covered trays, or bright windowsills with stable humidity. Ambient humidity in many San Francisco homes—especially near the coast—may be sufficient for this plant, though enclosed environments will yield the best flowering. Maintain consistently moist conditions and protect from cold drafts or dry, heated air.
How to Grow Outdoors (San Francisco)
This species can be grown outdoors in San Francisco in a shaded, sheltered, frost-free area—such as a greenhouse bench or covered patio planter. Protect from direct sunlight, wind, and temperatures below 50°F. Outdoor growing is best from late spring through fall; move indoors during winter or cold snaps. Always maintain constant moisture.
Why We Love It
With its absurdly cute, blue bunny-like flowers and mossy, ground-covering habit, Utricularia sandersonii var. Blue Flower brings a whimsical charm to carnivorous collections. Easy to grow and endlessly amusing, it’s equally at home in a terrarium, windowsill tray, or shared carnivorous display.
