Proserpinaca palustris 'Cuba' Care Guide
Proserpinaca palustris 'Cuba' is a mermaid-weed form with comb-like leaves that turn red-orange under strong light and CO2.
Overview
Proserpinaca palustris is a marsh plant of the watermilfoil family (Haloragaceae), commonly called mermaid weed. The 'Cuba' selection is the form most often seen in the European aquarium trade. Under strong light it develops intensely red to orange, finely divided submersed leaves.
Taxonomy
- Family: Haloragaceae
- Genus: Proserpinaca
- Scientific name: Proserpinaca palustris 'Cuba'
- Common name: mermaid weed
Habitat
The species is native to North America, the Caribbean, and Central America, with reports extending into parts of South America. It occurs in freshwater swamps, marshes, bogs, ponds and along shorelines, and does not tolerate brackish or salt water.
Morphology
Proserpinaca palustris is heterophyllous, changing leaf form with the environment. Emersed leaves are serrated and broad, while submersed leaves are deeply divided into linear, comb-like segments. Submersed leaves are sessile and about 2-6 cm long.
Tank requirements
- Lighting: high
- CO2: required (about 15-40 mg/L)
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 1-8 °dGH
- Maximum height: about 30 cm
- Placement: midground to background accent
Planting and care
Grown as a stem plant in a nutrient-rich substrate, it needs strong light and CO2 to develop and hold its red-orange coloration. Coloration intensity depends on light and nutrient balance; higher nitrate levels tend to shift the plant toward lighter orange or green hues.
Propagation
Propagation is by cuttings: side shoots or trimmed tops are replanted into the substrate to root and continue growth.
Difficulty
Rated advanced. High light, reliable CO2 and stable nutrients are needed for strong colour and steady growth, making it a high-tech plant.