Description:
Parrotfeather gets its name from its feather-like leaves which are arranged around the stem in whorls of four to six. Parrot feather has both submersed and emergent leaves, with the submersed form being easily mistaken for Eurasian watermilfoil a close relative. The submersed leaves are 1.5 to 3.5 centimeters long and have 20 to 30 divisions per leaf. The emergent leaves are two to five centimeters long and have six to 18 divisions per leaf. The bright green emergent leaves can be very stiff and a darker green than the submersed leaves. The emergent stems and leaves are the most distinctive trait of parrot feather, as they can grow up to a foot above the water surface and look almost like small fir trees.

The submersed leaves (if present) are limp and often appear to be decaying but the stems are very robust. Adventitious roots form at the nodes. When attached to a bank, parrotfeather stems can extend out several yards over the water surface. Flowers are inconspicuous and are borne in the axils of the emergent leaves. The white flowers are approximately 1/16 inch long.

• Control: Refer to the State Noxious Weed Control Board site. Do not use herbicides in wetland or aquatic areas without first contacting your local Weed Control Agency.

For More Information:
Detailed information about Parrot Feather is available at the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board Web Site.