Parrot’s feather

Myriophyllum aquaticum 

Habitat

Still or slowly flowing nutrient-rich water. 

Key ID features

• Bright blue-green, feather-like leaves growing in whorls. 

• Small, white flowers at base of leaves between May and August. 

• Brown roots present around nodes of submerged stems.

Distribution

Widespread in England and Wales.

Impacts

Causes flooding by blocking watercourses and drainage channels. Can rapidly dominate a water body outcompeting native species.

Do’s & Don’ts

• DON’T buy from any outlets for aquariums and water gardens. It is against the law for it to be sold.

• DO check whether this plant is present in your pond/aquarium - it’s really a monster in disguise.

• DO dispose of invasive non-native plants responsibly – leave to dry in a sunny area 3m away from water. Can be composted or burned (in line with local restrictions) once completely dried.

• DON’T break the law - Be Plant Wise - don’t dump invasive non-native aquatic plants in the wild or transfer to other ponds. If you cause parrot’s feather to spread you may be guilty of an offence under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement & Permitting) Order 2019.

More Information

For more information visit the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website.