Plant Profiles

Proserpinaca palustris

Live freshwater plant Proserpinaca palustris - Mermaid Weed for fish tanks and aquariums Large bunch or portion of aquatic plant Proserpinaca palustris - Mermaid Weed. Aquarium plant with fast delivery across Australia.
Proserpinaca palustris
Mermaid Weed
$8.95

Proserpinaca palustris, also known as Mermaid Weed, is a unique stem plant that can be a great addition to the aquarium. Its serrated leaves that end in fine points give it an attractive and comb-like appearance that becomes more finely divided under high light. The leaves turn a bright orange-red colour with high light and CO2, making a vibrant display in the aquarium.

To grow this moderately difficult plant well, you will need to provide it with medium to strong lighting, CO2 addition, and a complete macro- and micronutrient supply. The addition of NO3 and PO4 in the range of 5-10 mg/l and 1.5-2 mg/l, respectively, will bring out the plant's deep orange-red colouration and encourage robust growth. In lower light it grows green. Mermaid Weed is not a fast grower, but in good conditions, it can become quite large. It is essential to maintain a constant iron supply to prevent the colours from fading. It prefers a pH value of 5.0-7.0, and is actually quite cold tolerant, growing in temperatures between 10-28°C

Mermaid Weed can be propagated through stem cuttings, but due to its slow growth re-planting the upper part of the shoot instead of the old plant will look best in the aquascape. This plant is an excellent choice for high-tech aquariums, and as it does not grow very fast, is best suited to the midground of the aquarium where it will draw attention with its finely structured leaves and attractive colours.

Proserpinaca palustris is a great choice for aquarists who are looking for a visually appealing stem plant. With proper care and the right conditions, this plant can add an eye-catching and colourful element to the aquarium.

Requirements and information

Temperature:
TropicalWarmCold

Substrate type:
CoarseFine

Substrate nutrients:

Medium

Water nutrients:

Medium

Light demand:

High

CO2:

High

Height:

Tall

Growth rate:

Moderate

Growth habit:

Stem

Difficulty:

Intermediate

Native to: