Parrot’s feather Myriophyllum aquaticum

Photo: GBNNSS

• Appearance: Perennial freshwater plant, finely pinnately dissected whorls of leaves, with shoots that can stick out of the water (13 cm high). Blue-green feather like leaves in whorls of 4-6. Emergent growth dies back in winter.

• Growth: Vigorous growth forming dense mats, small fragments can regrow. Prefers nutrient-rich shallow, still or slow-flowing water.

• Impact: Negative impact on aquatic ecosystems, shades out other plants and can obstruct the movement of animals. Decaying vegetation can reduce water quality leading to the death of fish and other aquatic animals.

• Pathway: Deliberate release or improper disposal of this pond plant into the wild.

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• Legal status: Species of special concern listed under the retained EU Regulation 1143/2014 and the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement & Permitting) Order 2019.

• Unless certain exemptions apply you must not:
  • keep them (unless already growing on your land or kept in a contained holding)
  • sell them to other people
  • use them or exchange them for goods
  • grow, cultivate or permit this plant to reproduce
  • release them into the environment
  • import them into the UK
  • transport them within the UK
  • export them to other countries

• What to do if you see Parrot’s feather for sale or other offences being committed: Make a report by following the guidance here.

• What to do if you see this plant in the wild: Record it with a photograph (where possible).

• Make sure you don’t spread this plant: Check Clean Dry your boots and equipment and Be Plant Wise in your garden.

• Links to more: Species information and ID sheet.