How to Grow Parrot's Feather
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Parrot's Feather
Myriophyllum aquaticum
aquatic plantParrot's feather is a delicate, feathery aquatic plant native to South America, known for its bright green, finely divided foliage that resembles feathers. It grows both submerged and emergent, with portions rising above the water surface, creating attractive texture in water gardens and aquariums. This versatile plant is popular in water features, ponds, and decorative aquatic settings.
When should you plant Parrot's Feather in your zone?
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Example Parrot's Feather timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Parrot's 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's Feather
Around Apr 20≈ 3 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Parrot's Feather dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-11; winter hardy in zones 7-9 when grown in established ponds
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Get my Parrot's Feather timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 weeksInitially planted stems with minimal new growth; leaves may appear slightly stressed
Keep water conditions stable, ensure good circulation, maintain water quality. Avoid major changes in temperature or lighting.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksRapid stem elongation with finely divided feathery foliage emerging along stems; bright green color intensifies
Provide full sun exposure, maintain consistent water temperature, begin light fertilization with aquatic plant fertilizers. Prune top growth to encourage bushier lateral branching.
Emergent Development
3-6 weeksStems reach water surface and extend above water; aerial leaves develop slightly different texture, more compact and feathery appearance
Maintain humidity around emergent foliage if in aquarium; provide strong lighting. Monitor for algae competition.
Mature Growth
OngoingEstablished plant with dense foliage both submerged and emergent; stems woody and established; bright green coloration
Regular pruning to maintain shape and prevent overgrowth; monitor for nutrient deficiencies; fertilize bi-weekly with comprehensive aquatic fertilizer
Dormancy (Seasonal)
2-4 monthsIn temperate zones, growth slows in fall/winter; foliage may die back in colder regions
Reduce fertilization in fall; prepare for potential frost damage. In ponds, plant deep enough that crowns are below ice line. May regrow from roots in spring in zones 7-9.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand; introduce snail-eating fish like pufferfish; reduce algae that attracts snails
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(Odonata order)
Usually not harmful; remove by netting if problematic; maintain predatory fish
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Increase plant biomass to compete for nutrients; reduce excess fertilizer; add UV sterilization or algaecide; improve water circulation
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Manual removal; reduce lighting duration; introduce algae-eating fish; use targeted algaecides; improve water quality
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Introduce mosquito fish or other predatory fish; maintain water circulation; reduce organic debris
Uses
Aquatic Garden Decoration
HouseholdParrot's feather is highly valued as an ornamental plant in water gardens, ponds, and decorative aquariums due to its delicate, fern-like foliage and bright green color. Its combination of submerged and emergent growth creates visual interest and texture in aquatic landscapes. [source]
Water Quality Improvement
HouseholdAs an aquatic plant, parrot's feather absorbs excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from water, helping to reduce algae growth and improve overall water clarity and quality in aquarium and pond systems. [source]
Habitat for Aquatic Organisms
WildlifeDense parrot's feather growth provides shelter and spawning substrate for small fish, aquatic invertebrates, and beneficial microorganisms, supporting aquatic biodiversity in ponds and water gardens. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn South American traditional medicine, parrot's feather has been used to prepare infusions believed to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Aquascaping Design Element
CraftAquarium enthusiasts use parrot's feather as a midground or background plant in planted aquascapes, where its feathery texture creates aesthetic focal points and helps define aquarium layouts. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Parrot's feather is not harvested for consumption but is pruned for maintenance and propagation. Trim stems regularly (every 2-3 weeks during growing season) to maintain shape and encourage branching. Cuttings 4-6 inches long can be propagated by inserting into substrate or anchoring in water—they will develop roots within 1-2 weeks. Remove dead or yellowing foliage promptly. In fall, thin density to prevent overcrowding and improve water circulation before winter.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Parrot's feather is considered an invasive species in some regions (including parts of North America and Europe) when it escapes into natural waterways, as it can form dense mats that outcompete native aquatic plants and clog waterways.
- 🌱 The plant's name 'parrot's feather' comes from the soft, finely divided foliage that resembles the delicate feathers of a parrot, particularly when the emergent growth extends above the water surface.
- 🌱 Unlike most aquatic plants, parrot's feather can survive brief periods out of water and is sometimes used in terrarium-style 'paludarium' setups where it straddles the line between aquatic and terrestrial environments.
Gardening Terms
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