A clear, detailed guide explaining the biology, spread, persistence and management of Parrot’s Feather in the UK — including identification features, growth behaviour, ecological impact and best‑practice control methods.
A detailed guide explaining the biology, spread, persistence and management of Parrot’s Feather in the UK.
Parrot’s feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) was first recorded in Britain in 1960 and has since spread to around 150 sites. Although widely grown in garden ponds, it is rarely introduced deliberately into the wild. Instead, fragments are often transported unintentionally, concealed in the soil of other aquatic plants sold at garden centres, allowing it to spread and colonise new sites rapidly.
Parrot’s feather spreads entirely through vegetative growth. Even small stem fragments can regenerate and form new plants. This makes it highly persistent and capable of rapidly colonising water bodies.
Control requires persistent effort due to the plant’s ability to regrow from small fragments. A combination of chemical, mechanical and manual methods is typically required.
Herbicides can be applied in spring to shallow water and damp ground. Glyphosate may be used, though it is less effective than some alternatives. At least two applications per year are recommended, with annual treatment required for long‑term suppression. Spot treatment of small patches helps prevent dominance.
Cut material must be removed from the water immediately to prevent fragments drifting downstream and re‑establishing. Cutting should be carried out as often as necessary — typically every 6–9 weeks from March to October — to weaken the plant.
Dredging is highly effective in shallow areas, removing large quantities of plant material. After mechanical removal, careful hand‑pulling of remaining stems helps reduce regrowth.
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