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Cortaderia selloana

Pampas Grass

Plant photo of: Cortaderia selloana
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Information by: Walton's Garden Center        Photographer:

 

Description

A popular, durable ornamental grass, producing a large clump of narrow, grassy foliage that arches outward; silvery white plumes tower above the foliage from late summer through late fall; tolerates some light shade; considered invasive in some areas. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its attractive spiny grassy leaves remain green in color throughout the season. The tan seed heads are carried on showy plumes displayed in abundance from late fall to late winter. Pampas Grass will grow to be about 9 feet tall at maturity extending to 12 feet tall with the flowers, with a spread of 6 feet. Its foliage tends to remain dense right to the ground, not requiring facer plants in front. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen! This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments.

 

Plant Type

Grass

Height Range

6-12'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Summer, Fall

Leaf Color

Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Season

Winter, Fall

Sun

Full

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Loam, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

Invasive

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish

Accenting Features

Fall Color, Showy Flowers, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Foundation, Park, Parking Lot, Roadside, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers, Hedge, Screen, Mass Planting

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Remember to check your irrigation system at least once a month, especially your valves, sprinkler heads, and drip emitters.