Proserpinaca palustris, commonly known as Mermaid Weed, is a captivating and exotic stem plant that brings a touch of wild beauty to freshwater aquascapes. Its delicate, saw-toothed submerged leaves and ability to shift from bright green to coppery-orange under strong lighting make it a favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts.
Native to North and Central America, Proserpinaca adapts well to submerged life, though its appearance changes significantly when transitioning from emersed (broader, simple leaves) to submerged form (finely serrated, feather-like leaves). This transformation makes it a dynamic visual feature in planted aquariums.
While it is not the fastest grower, it rewards stable conditions with rich color, elegant leaf shape, and soft motion in the current. Perfect as a midground or background highlight in nature-style, Dutch, or biotope aquariums.
Key Features:
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? Exotic Leaf Shape: Finely serrated “mermaid tail” leaves in submerged form
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? Color-Changing: Ranges from green to coppery-red under high light
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? Lighting Needs: Medium to high for optimal growth and coloration
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?️ CO₂ Recommended: Boosts color, density, and overall health
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? Unique Contrast Plant: Pairs beautifully with broader-leaved species
Care Requirements:
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Temperature: 68–80°F (20–27°C)
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pH: 5.5–7.5
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Light: Medium to high
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CO₂: Recommended
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Growth Rate: Moderate
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Placement: Midground to background
Ideal For:
Aquascapers looking for a soft-textured, exotic plant with changing coloration. Ideal for Dutch-style or color-themed layouts.
Common Name: Mermaid Weed, Marsh Mermaid Weed
Family Name: Haloragaceae
Origin:North America
Height: 4-12”
pH: 6.5-7.5
Care: Easy to Moderate
Light: Medium to High
Co2: Required
Propagation: Cut stem and replant
Growth rate: Moderate to Fast
Tissue culture plants are grown in vitro from a state of the art laboratory specialized in propagating aquatic plants. They provide the best option for those who want to ensure that absolutely zero unwanted pests are introduced into the aquarium.
This is a unique stem plant with saw-toothed edges on the leaves. Colors can range from a bright solid red to a lighter golden green coloration depending on lighting and nutrients. The leaves turn more red when dosing iron supplements in your tank.
This plant acts as a great background coverage, especially in a Dutch style aquascape where the unique leaves can add a great contrast to other plants.
Propagation is simple and straightforward like other stem plants. Simply cut along the stem and replant the cuttings.
Remove tissue culture gel before planting. Simply wash the gel away or soak the plant in water and squeeze the gel off with your fingers.
