Description
Parrot feather characteristics include a woody emergent structure up to 5 feet tall with bright green, feather-like leaves that grow in whorls of four to six around the stem, resembling small fir trees. The submerged leaves are often reddish, while the upper leaves are distinctly green and finely divided. This perennial aquatic plant reproduces asexually from fragments and forms dense mats that can choke waterways and threaten ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
Leaves:
The plant has both submersed (below water) and emergent (above water) leaves.
Emergent Leaves: These are the most distinctive feature, growing up to 1 foot (30 cm) above the water, where they are bright green and arranged in whorls of four to six. They are finely divided into many narrow lobes.
Submersed Leaves: These are typically reddish and also have a feathery appearance.
Stems:
The stems are woody and emergent, giving the plant a “fir tree” look above the water.
Flowers:
Small, pinkish-white flowers, about 1/16 inches (1.6 mm) long, may emerge from the plant.
Growth Pattern:
The plant begins as a submerged form but branches extensively, with emergent stems and leaves eventually growing from the water’s surface.
Reproduction and Spread
Asexual Reproduction:
Parrot feather reproduces primarily through fragments. New plants grow from established pieces of the plant that take root.
Dispersal:
Fragments can be spread by water currents, wildfowl, livestock, and humans via recreational equipment, boats, and machinery.
Ecological Impact
Invasive Species: Parrot feather is an invasive species in many aquatic environments.
Habitat Disruption: Its dense mats can choke waterways, impede navigation for boats, and negatively affect aquatic ecosystems by blocking sunlight and altering water quality.
Outcompetes Native Plants: It readily outcompetes and takes over native plants in lakes, ponds, and streams.
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