Myriophyllum aquaticum ("Normalform")

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

This plant is best utilized in the background or as a floating or emerged plant in open-top tanks. Its large size and fast growth make it unsuitable for the foreground. It forms dense floating mats if left untrimmed, offering great shade and cover.

Botanical form

Stem

It has finely pinnate, feathery leaves arranged in whorls along a sturdy stem. The submerged leaves are delicate and light green, while the emerged leaves are much stiffer and often bluish-green. The stems can sometimes take on a reddish hue under intense lighting.

Growth

very-fast

It has a very fast growth rate, making it ideal for competing with algae in new setups. When grown emerged, the growth rate can be even faster due to unrestricted access to atmospheric CO2. Frequent pruning is a must to keep it confined.

Substrate

Medium

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilizers are highly effective since the finely divided leaves offer a massive surface area for absorption. Regular dosing of macronutrients prevents the plant from starving. It acts as a great nutrient sponge in the water column.

Root fertilization

Recommended

A nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs provide a good foundation for the plant. While it heavily relies on the water column, roots will actively seek out substrate nutrients. Strong rooting is helpful to hold the buoyant stems in place.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming must be done regularly to prevent it from shading out the rest of the aquarium. The tops can be cut and replanted to keep the stand looking fresh and bushy. Discarding the older, leafless bottom sections is often necessary.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is done by simply cutting the stem and replanting the top or any healthy side shoot. Even floating fragments will quickly grow roots and continue to develop. It is one of the easiest aquatic plants to propagate.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is highly adaptable but prone to shedding its lower leaves if lighting is insufficient. It prefers cooler to moderate temperatures and can struggle in very warm discus tanks. High flow is beneficial to keep its fine leaves free of detritus.

Layout role

Midground, Background

Parrot's Feather is fantastic for providing a feathery, textured background. It is particularly popular in pond edges, paludariums, and open-top aquariums where it can grow out of the water. Its ability to absorb excess nutrients makes it highly functional.