Marsh Mermaidweed
Proserpinaca palustris
- Native to:
- Bahamas, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, El Salvador, Guam, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, United States, Uruguay, Virgin Islands
Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute.
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Haloragaceae
- Genus:
- Proserpinaca
- Species:
- Proserpinaca palustris
- USDA Symbol:
- PRPA3
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 100 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Low
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- greenish-white
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- waterfowl, aquatic insects
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, organic, moisture-retentive soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- tolerates poor drainage
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- Commonly found in wetlands and marshes
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 30-60 days; sow on moist soil surface and keep consistently wet.