Parrot's feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Parrot's feather on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Haloragaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Parrot's feather
Myriophyllum aquaticum, commonly known as Brazilian Water-milfoil, is an aquatic stem plant that produces dense clusters of fine, feathery foliage. Its stems emerge from the water with bright green leaves, creating a lush and delicate appearance. It is ideal for aquariums, ponds, and paludariums, where it can form a beautiful backdrop or a floating surface plant.
Native range
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile)
Care tips
Requires bright to very bright light for compact and healthy growth; insufficient light will lead to weak, leggy stems. It prefers soft to moderately hard water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. A nutrient-rich substrate and CO2 injection will promote vigorous growth. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations and nutrient deficiencies, which can cause yellowing and disintegration of the leaves.
How to save a dying Parrot's feather
- Warning signs
- Soft stems, detached or discolored (dark/white) leaves. Loses vibrant green.
- First aid
- Remove damaged parts. Ensure good light (no harsh sun) and clean water. Fertilize gently.
- What kills it
- Lack of proper light, water pollution, or insufficient nutrients. Stagnant, deoxygenated water.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Propagate healthy stems if mother plant is severely damaged.