Proserpinaca pectin

Proserpinac pectinata, the Russian-language name is a transcription from the scientific name Proserpinaca pectinata. It can also be supplied as Proserpinac americana, indicating its origin. It grows naturally in North America from Canada along the eastern and southeastern United States to Mexico. It occurs in humid places along the banks of swampy reservoirs, including in shallow water on silted peat substrates completely submerged in water.

It is a closely related species of Proserpinaki palustris. Both species have a similar appearance – a bush of upright stems with pinnate leaves, which, depending on growth conditions, can acquire orange hues. Proserpinac pectinata differs in that when grown in an air environment, for example, in a paludarium, it retains the pinnate shape of the leaf blade, and the leaves themselves are arranged alternately on the stem.

It is considered a rare aquarium plant outside of America. However, in the European aquarists its name is often erroneously applied to Hottonia.

In aquariums, soft slightly acidic water, nutritious soil rich in trace elements and a high level of lighting are considered the optimal environment. High concentrations of phosphates and iron contribute to the development of yellowish or orange hues.