Parrot's Feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)

Parrot's Feather

Myriophyllum aquaticum

Feathery submerged foliage creates soft aquatic texture. Floating aquatic herbaceous perennial; common name: parrot feather watermilfoil.

Full sun
N/A/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full to partial sun; supports dense, vibrant foliage growth in bright aquatic conditions; tolerates mild shade with reduced growth density
💧
Watering Requires constant submersion in freshwater; thrives in slow-moving or still water bodies with stable pH levels
🌡️
Temperature Thrives in 15–25℃; prolonged exposure below 10℃ may cause leaf yellowing and dieback
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Whorled, feather-like, bright green; submerged leaves finer than floating emergent leaves
  • Flower: Tiny, white, 4-petaled blooms on emergent stems above water surface
  • Stem: Slender, branching; form dense, interwoven floating mats when rooted in shallow substrate
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent water level; top up with dechlorinated water as needed

Fertilization

Diluted aquatic fertilizer application every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen aquatic fertilizer to minimize algae growth in enclosed water bodies

Aquarium water change runoff:Use dechlorinated water from weekly freshwater aquarium changes to top up ponds/aquariums; avoid adding raw organic materials to prevent excess algae blooms
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown floating mats to prevent oxygen depletion in enclosed water bodies
  • Remove yellowing submerged foliage to maintain water clarity and reduce nutrient buildup
  • Thin dense emergent stems in summer to improve water circulation and light penetration
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no risk of poisoning from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from contact or ingestion

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquatic ornamental for ponds and aquariums; helps filter excess nutrients to reduce algae growth