Utricularia minor, commonly known as lesser bladderwort, is a small perennial carnivorous plant with a circumboreal distribution, found in North America, Asia, and Europe. It is native to nutrient-poor, acidic wetlands including bogs, fens, and shallow lakes, often affixed to the substrate but can also survive free-floating. Lesser bladderwort is notable for its underwater bladder traps that capture small aquatic organisms, contributing to its survival in nutrient-deficient environments. The plant features delicate, yellow flowers that appear above the water surface from late spring to early summer, adding a subtle charm to aquatic settings.

In cultivation, lesser bladderwort is valued for its unique carnivorous habit and its ability to help control mosquito larvae and other waterborne pests in natural ponds and water gardens. It requires full sun to part shade, consistently moist or even submerged conditions, and an acidic pH to thrive. While it is not commonly used in traditional garden settings due to its specific requirements, it is a fascinating addition to specialized water features. Gardeners should be aware that Utricularia minor can spread rapidly under ideal conditions, potentially becoming dominant in small water bodies.CC BY-SA 4.0