How to Grow Parrot Feather
iNaturalist
Parrot Feather
Myriophyllum aquaticum
aquatic plantParrot feather is a delicate aquatic plant with feathery, finely-divided foliage that resembles parrot plumage, giving it its common name. It is an emergent aquatic plant that can grow both submerged and partially above water, creating an attractive vertical element in water gardens and aquariums. The plant is prized for its ornamental value and its ability to help oxygenate water and provide habitat for aquatic life.
When should you plant Parrot Feather in your zone?
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Example Parrot Feather timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Parrot Feather
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Parrot Feather
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Parrot Feather dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-11, though performs best in zones 7-10
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Establishment
2-3 weeksNewly planted stems begin developing roots and establishing in substrate; foliage appears sparse
Keep water level consistent; provide moderate light; avoid high water flow that may uproot delicate stems
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksStems elongate rapidly; feathery pinnate leaves develop in dense whorls along stems; plant develops both submersed and emergent foliage
Maintain stable water temperature (65-75°F); ensure adequate nutrient levels; prune to encourage bushiness
Emergent Development
6-10 weeksStems extend above water surface; emergent foliage becomes denser and more rigid than submersed leaves; plant takes on characteristic feathery appearance
Support tall stems if necessary; continue fertilizing; maintain water depth; remove any algae competing for nutrients
Mature Growth
Ongoing maintenance phasePlant reaches full size with abundant feathery foliage above and below waterline; healthy plants can grow 12-18 inches tall above water
Trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and maintain shape; harvest stems for propagation if desired; monitor for nutrient deficiencies
Flowering
Variable, sporadicSmall, inconspicuous flowers may appear on emergent portions of stem; flowers are typically greenish and not ornamentally significant
Flowering is optional; focus on foliage maintenance; seeds rarely develop in cultivation; propagate via stem cuttings instead
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Reduce snail population through manual removal; introduce snail-eating fish; limit overfeeding in aquatic systems
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Reduce excess nutrients; increase water changes; add algae-eating fish or invertebrates; reduce light exposure if excessive
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Use protective netting around plants; select herbivore-resistant tank mates; provide supplemental vegetable food for fish
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Maintain good water quality; perform regular water changes; use fine mesh screens if necessary
Uses
Ornamental Aquatic Landscaping
HouseholdParrot feather is widely used in water gardens, aquariums, and pond landscaping to create vertical interest and lush backgrounds. Its feathery foliage provides aesthetic appeal and helps create a natural-looking aquatic environment. [source]
Aquatic Habitat & Oxygenation
WildlifeThe plant provides shelter and spawning habitat for fish and aquatic invertebrates while releasing oxygen during photosynthesis, improving water quality. Its dense growth helps filter debris and provides microhabitat for beneficial organisms. [source]
Water Filtration
HouseholdParrot feather absorbs excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) from water, helping to control algae growth and maintain clear, healthy water in ponds and aquariums. [source]
Aquatic Plant Propagation & Hobby
CraftEasy to propagate via stem cuttings, parrot feather is popular among aquarists and water gardeners for learning plant propagation techniques and maintaining sustainable aquatic ecosystems. [source]
Ecological Restoration
WildlifeUsed in constructed wetlands and biofilter systems for wastewater treatment and water purification in residential and municipal applications. [source]
Harvest Tips
Parrot feather is typically not harvested for consumption but rather maintained for ornamental purposes. Trim stems regularly by cutting just above a leaf node to encourage branching and bushiness. Propagate new plants by taking 4-6 inch stem cuttings and replanting them in substrate; they will develop roots within 1-2 weeks. Harvest excess growth to prevent overcrowding and maintain water quality.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Parrot feather gets its name from its distinctive feathery, finely-divided leaves that resemble parrot plumage; the foliage appears softer and more delicate than most aquatic plants.
- 🌱 The plant can grow in both fully submerged and semi-aquatic conditions; emergent foliage (above water) is denser and more rigid than submersed leaves, which are more delicate and feathery.
- 🌱 Parrot feather is considered invasive in some regions (Australia, New Zealand, South Africa) due to its aggressive growth; it is classified as a noxious weed in several countries, so responsible disposal is important if keeping it in cultivation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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