Dennerle Proserpinaca Palustris 'Cuba'

Proserpinaca palustris 'Cuba' is a remarkable aquatic stem plant native to North and Central America (including Cuba), where it grows in flooded ditches, marshes, and lake margins. Its most dramatic characteristic is its extreme phenotypic plasticity: submerged leaves are deeply pinnate (feathery, almost saw-toothed) with fine, comb-like lobes, and under strong light and CO2 the plant takes on vivid orange to red-orange coloration — a transformation that makes it one of the most visually striking color plants available.

The fine, pinnate leaf structure creates a feathery, unusual texture unlike most other aquarium plants. A grouping of Proserpinaca palustris 'Cuba' in full color — orange-red pinnate leaves — is a dramatic statement in any aquascape composition, particularly effective as a midground-to-background transition element.

This plant requires patience and proper conditions: strong light, CO2 injection, iron-rich fertilization, and soft, slightly acidic water. Without strong light and CO2, the plant may remain green and fail to develop its striking pinnate leaf form fully. With proper care, it is one of the most rewarding color plants in the hobby.

Dennerle produces this as a tissue culture, ensuring algae-free establishment.

Light: Very high light required (60–100+ PAR) for maximum color. Moderate light keeps the plant green with less pinnation.

CO2: Essential (20–30 mg/L) for best growth, pinnate leaf development, and vivid coloration.

Nutrients: Iron-rich fertilization is critical for the orange-red coloration. Use a comprehensive liquid fertilizer with good iron content. Macro (NPK) supplementation also important.

Placement: Background or mid-to-background plant. Groups of 5–7 stems for visual impact. Plant toward the back where its height (30–50 cm) is appropriate.

Maintenance: Regular trimming required. Trim and replant tops. Thin lower stems as they become bare.

Water Parameters: pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 18–28°C, soft water (GH 2–10). Best color achieved in soft, slightly acidic conditions.