Homeowners are being urged to check their gardens and ponds for a species of invasive plant.

Parrot's feather is a non-native perennial aquatic that is able to spread by regrowing from small fragments of leaves and roots instead of by seeds.

This method of dispersal combined with a relative lack of natural predators means that the species can spread rapidly through a water system.

Here is what the Broads Authority recommends for dealing with outbreaks. 

  • If an outbreak occurs it should be eliminated immediately by treating it with herbicide or hand-pulled and doubled bagged.
  • Avoid fragments from floating away which can cause regrowth elsewhere by using nets to collect pieces in high water flow areas.

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  • Hand-pull all individual plants in an area ensuring the whole plant and root system is removed.
  • If resistance is felt when gently pulling stop and feel down the stem until the brittle roots can be removed.
  • If people think they have found Parrots feather, they can contact Norfolk Non-Native Species Initiative for free advice and help via email at NNNSI@norfolk.gov.uk