1. Introduction
【Child】 Oh, wise professor! You know how Odysseus’s men used the Sirens’ song to guide them on their voyage? It reminds me of my quest to find the perfect aquatic plant for my aquarium.
【Professor】 Aha, my inquisitive child! An artistic analogy indeed. Just like sailors finding their way through troubled waters, finding the ideal aquatic plant for your aquatic kingdom can be an adventure. Today, let me introduce you to a plant called Myriophyllum aquaticum, also known as water milfoil or parrot’s feather. It might just be the enchanting plant you’ve been searching for!
2. Characteristics
【Child】 A plant with feathers like a parrot? Now, that sounds magical! What about its appearance makes it so unique?
【Professor】 My dear child, the moniker of “parrot’s feather” comes from the mesmerizing array of green leaves that grow densely along its stem. The whorled leaves and feathery appearance give this plant its distinctive charm. It’s like a twisting vine in the forests of your beloved fairytales.
【Child】 How marvelous! Will this captivating plant be suitable for a kingdom as small as mine or will it be better for grander aquatic realms?
【Professor】 Fear not, young one. Water milfoil is adaptable and can be used in aquariums of various sizes. However, its true splendor shines in medium and large aquariums where it can grow into an alluring display. Given enough space, it can reach maximum heights of around 20 to 60 cm, casting a spell over all those who gaze upon it.
3. Cultivation
【Child】 My skills in planting may not be as bountiful as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Is this plant difficult to grow?
【Professor】 A valid concern, my young horticulturist. Although the parrot’s feather is not a plant for a novice magician, it is not so difficult that it requires mastery of wizardry either. With careful attention to light, CO2 levels, pH, GH, kH, temperature, and the right selection of bottom sand and fertilizer, you can create a thriving aquatic garden with this plant at its heart.
【Child】 What about planting this magical vine in a landlocked garden? Is it possible to summon it to the surface world?
【Professor】 Ah, your curiosity knows no bounds! You’ll be delighted to know that parrot’s feather can indeed transform from the watery depths to the world above. The stems can stretch out of water, transforming their underwater leaves into aerial ones. The plant thrives in damp or marshy environments, spreading its verdant charms without the need for submersion.
4. Precautions
【Child】 A wise sage once said, “with great power comes great responsibility.” What precautions must I take in growing this enchanting plant?
【Professor】 An astute point, my little philosopher! As captivating as parrot’s feather may be, it possesses a dark side like many plants in our realm. Given the chance, it can become invasive, spreading rapidly and choking the life from other plants. It is crucial to manage its growth and ensure that it exists in harmonious balance with the other organisms in your aquatic paradise.
5. Summary
【Child】 Dearest professor, my mind overflows with newfound knowledge! I must summarize it to make sense of it all.
【Professor】 My excellent apprentice! In your journey to cultivate Myriophyllum aquaticum, remember its unique feathery, whorled leaves that piqued your curiosity. Assess the size of your aquatic realm and provide optimal conditions for this semi-demanding plant. Be mindful of its invasive nature and keep it in check, so your underwater kingdom remains in harmony. With great care, your aquarium can flourish with the magical beauty of the parrot’s feather.
【Child】 Thank you, wise professor! With your guidance, my aquatic garden shall bloom with splendor, like the cherry blossoms during Spring in Kyoto!
【Professor】 My dear child, may your journey in the world of aquatic plants be filled with wonder, beauty, and boundless enchantment. Now, go forth and create the awe-inspiring realm you’ve always imagined!