Proserpinaca pectinata
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 28 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
Illustration: USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 613.
What is Combleaf Mermaidweed?
Physical Characteristics
Leaves:
- Alternate
- Feathery
- Greenish-white in color
Flowers:
- Found in spring and early summer
Fruit:
- 3 angled
- Small nut
Stem:
- White or green in color
- Spreading
- Upper part upright
Where Does it Grow?
Combleaf mermaidweed can be found in water, but also grows well out of water.
Pros and Cons of Combleaf Mermaidweed
Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc.). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates.