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Mermaid Weed
IntermediateProserpinaca palustris
North American stem plant with unique serrated leaves. Turns golden to copper-red under strong light. Slow grower but adds unique texture to aquascapes.
About
Proserpinaca palustris is a stem plant in the family Haloragaceae, native to North and Central America. It is notable for heterophylly, with markedly different emersed and submersed forms; underwater it produces densely set, deeply saw-toothed leaves. Under ample lighting, CO2, and nutrients, the leaves color from orange to coppery red, making it a distinctively textured red plant for the mid to background. Forms differ by origin and strain, such as the 'Cuba' variety. Strong lighting, CO2 injection, and iron-containing fertilization are important for coloration. Growth is somewhat slow but it can be propagated by trimming and replanting. It is hardy once conditions are set, but drawing out its beautiful submersed leaves and coloration requires care, suiting intermediate hobbyists. It prefers soft, slightly acidic to neutral water.
Size of the Mermaid Weed
The Mermaid Weed grows to 10-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Mermaid Weed
The ideal temperature for the Mermaid Weed is 20〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
North and Central America
Size
10-30cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 recommended + liquid fert + iron
Growing Tips
Lighting
Under strong lighting the leaves turn orange to copper-red. With insufficient light the attractive submersed leaves and colour are hard to achieve.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer containing iron is important for colour. Combine it with CO2 injection to bring out the red texture in the mid- to background.
Water Temperature & Quality
Aim for 20–28°C and slightly acidic to neutral soft water. Once conditions are right it grows robustly.
CO2
Improves growth. Maintainable without
Trimming
Propagate by replanting. Slow growth means less trimming
Cautions
Emersed and submersed leaves look very different. Emersed leaves at introduction are replaced underwater by deeply cut leaves, so be patient.
Mermaid Weed FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Mermaid Weed?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Mermaid Weed?
The ideal temperature for Mermaid Weed is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Mermaid Weed get?
The mature size of Mermaid Weed is 10-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Mermaid Weed?
Mermaid Weed: watering & fertilizer — CO2 recommended + liquid fert + iron. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Mermaid Weed?
The price of Mermaid Weed varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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