Proserpinaca palustris (Mermaid Weed)

Proserpinaca palustris (Mermaid Weed) also known as Saw-Tooth Hygro, has the potential to make a dramatic statement in any tank in which it is planted.  Its leaves start out a vibrant green color with choppy, serrated edges.  When allowed to grow under high-intensity lighting, the leaves will become more bristle-like, resembling tiny, delicate combs.  Additionally, the leaves will gradually change from just green to a variety of pink and golden hues.  This plant will certainly add a pop of color to your tank!

This plant is considered moderately difficult to grow and maintain, so it may not be ideal for beginning aquatic plant enthusiasts.  If kept under insufficient lighting and/or water lacking in nutrients, Mermaid Weed tends to shed its leaves.

Mermaid Weed grows at a moderate to slow pace, so propagating doesn’t need to be done too often.  When propagation is needed, this plant should be propagated much like other stem plants.  The plant grows in shoots that can be trimmed and replanted into your substrate.  The vibrant tops of the stems can be cut off and replanted to spread the colorful parts of the plant around.  The stem bottoms can be thrown out or left in the substrate to give the plant a more bushy texture.

Hardiness: Moderate
Light Needs: Medium-High
Plant Structure: Stem
Family: Haloragaceae
Genus: Proserpinaca
Region: Americas
Location: Americas
Size: Stem width: 3-5cm (1-2 in)
Growth Rate: Medium
Can Be Grown Emersed: Yes