Mermaid Weed (Proserpinaca palustris) (Proserpinaca palustris) is a intermediate-level aquarium plant. A feathery stem plant with serrated leaves that turn reddish-bronze under bright light. It is easy to trim and replant and does best with good light and regular feeding.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameProserpinaca palustris
FamilyHaloragaceae
OriginNorth America
Height8-16 in
LightMedium to high
CO2Optional
PlacementMidground to background
Growth rateModerate
Temperature68-80°F
pH6.0-7.5
DifficultyIntermediate
PropagationCuttings

Quick tips

  • Use brighter light for stronger color.
  • Trim and replant tops often.
  • Keep nutrients steady to avoid bare lower stems.

San Diego water

Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.

New to planted tanks? Start with our beginner planted tank guide and the plant fertilizer guide.

Find it at Pet Zone

Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.

Pet Zone Convoy

4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm

Aquascaping, planted tanks

Pet Zone Mid-City

4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm

Monster fish, koi