Proserpinaca Palustris (Mermaid Weed)

Proserpinaca palustris

Also known as Mermaid Weed — An Unusual Beauty with Serrated Foliage

Proserpinaca palustris, commonly referred to as Mermaid Weed, is a visually striking stem plant celebrated for its finely serrated, almost feathery leaves that shimmer in hues ranging from bright green to deep copper-red depending on lighting and nutrient conditions. This North American native is a favorite among aquascapers looking to add texture, contrast, and a wild, natural touch to planted tanks.

🌿 Key Features:

• Unique Leaf Shape: Delicate, saw-tooth foliage resembling aquatic ferns or lace adds eye-catching texture to aquascapes.

• Color Variability: Green under moderate lighting; turns bronze to deep red under intense light and CO₂.

• Midground to Background Use: Excellent for adding vertical interest and soft movement in flowing water.

• Native Species: Grows naturally in marshes and slow-moving waters across the U.S., making it an eco-conscious choice.

🔆 Optimal Growing Conditions:

• Lighting: Medium to high; stronger lighting enhances red tones and leaf serration.

• CO₂: Highly recommended for best growth and coloration, though not strictly required.

• Water Parameters:
  pH: 6.0–7.5
  Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
  Soft to moderately hard water preferred

🪴 Aquascaping Benefits:

• Adds contrast to smoother-leaved plants like Anubias or Cryptocoryne.

• Ideal for nature-style and biotope tanks.

• The intricate leaf texture softens hardscape elements like rocks and driftwood.

🌱 Propagation & Growth:

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Propagation: Simply cut and replant healthy stems.

• Nutrient Substrate: Recommended for optimal growth.

• Can Be Grown Emersed: Yes — ideal for paludariums or riparium setups.

📦 What You’ll Receive:

• Fresh-Cut Plants: Approximately 6 loose, freshly cut stems — unrooted and ready to plant directly into your substrate.
• Bunched Plants: Approximately 6 unrooted, fresh-cut stems bundled together with foam and secured with a weight for easy placement.
• Potted Plants: Approximately 6 unrooted, fresh-cut stems nestled in rockwool and housed in a net pot — ideal for stable planting and easy transfer.

🔒 Disclaimer:

Photos shown are sample representations. Actual plants may vary in size, shape, and coloration depending on growing conditions. Aquatic plants may be shipped emersed or submersed, and while we inspect every shipment, we cannot guarantee plants are 100% free of snails or algae.

⚠️ State Restrictions Notice

♻️ Be a Responsible Aquatic Plants Owner
Please do not release Proserpinaca palustris or any aquarium plants into natural waterways. They can disrupt native ecosystems. Dispose of trimmings responsibly.