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Combleaf Mermaidweed

Proserpinaca pectinata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Combleaf Mermaidweed (Proserpinaca pectinata)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National Technical Center, Fort Worth. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

4"–24" H × 2"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, DE, FL, GA and 17 more states

Combleaf mermaidweed is an aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial native to wetlands and pond edges. This small plant produces distinctive feathery, comb-like leaves and tiny inconspicuous flowers from summer through early fall. It requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and is primarily suited for water gardens or bog areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Combleaf Mermaidweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Requires wetland conditions unsuitable for typical landscaping
  • Aquatic growth habit appears unconventional in standard gardens
  • May look sparse or weedy outside its natural habitat

Wildlife value

This plant provides habitat for aquatic insects and serves as food for waterfowl. Its specialized wetland nature limits its appeal to most pollinators compared to terrestrial native plants.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Combleaf Mermaidweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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