Pampas grass, known scientifically as Cortaderia selloana, is a perennial grass prized for its ornamental qualities. This species is native to the South American pampas region, which includes parts of Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. It is a large, clumping grass that forms dense tussocks of foliage, often reaching an impressive height and spread. The plant’s most recognizable feature is its towering, feathery plumes, which emerge from the foliage on tall stalks. These striking plumes, typically silvery-white, beige, or pale pink, give the plant an architectural presence in any setting.
Use in Landscape Design
The large scale and visual impact of the live plant make it a popular choice for specific landscape applications. Pampas grass is frequently used as a specimen plant, drawing visual attention to a particular spot in a garden or yard. Its sculptural silhouette and immense size, with mature clumps often reaching up to 12 feet tall, establish it as a commanding focal point.
It is also commonly planted to create a robust and natural screen or hedge for privacy. The dense growth habit and substantial width of the tussock allow a row of these grasses to form an effective living barrier. Historically, the plant’s deep and fibrous root system has been utilized for erosion control in areas with unstable soil. The extensive roots help to bind the ground, stabilizing slopes and preventing soil displacement.
The plant tolerates a variety of soil conditions and is drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance option for large-scale projects. When used as a backdrop, its neutral-colored foliage and plumes provide a simple, textural canvas that highlights the color of neighboring shrubs or flowering plants. Its sheer size means it is better suited for expansive properties and large gardens rather than small, confined spaces.
Use in Dried Floral Arrangements and Home Decor
The soft plumes of pampas grass have become a staple element in modern interior design and dried floral artistry. Once harvested and dried, the fluffy, feather-like seed heads offer a unique texture and neutral color palette that complements many aesthetic styles. The plumes are particularly favored for their ability to add an airy elegance to a space without the need for fresh flowers.
For use in this capacity, the plumes are typically harvested in late summer or early fall when they are at their fullest. They are preserved by being hung upside down in a cool, dry place for two to three weeks until completely dry. This preservation process ensures the plumes retain their shape and volume for long-lasting display.
Dried pampas grass is widely used for creating statement arrangements in large floor vases, bringing a sense of height and natural softness indoors. It features prominently in wedding decor, used to create dramatic ceremony arches, unique bouquets, and elegant table centerpieces. To minimize the natural shedding that occurs with dried plumes, they are sometimes lightly sprayed with a floral protectant or hairspray after being arranged.
Considerations for Use: Managing Invasive Growth
Despite its aesthetic appeal, Cortaderia selloana carries significant ecological and practical drawbacks that must be understood. Pampas grass is classified as an invasive species in many parts of the world, including regions in California, Hawaii, and New Zealand. This is due to its prolific seed production, where a single large flower plume can generate up to 100,000 seeds that are easily dispersed by wind.
Its aggressive growth allows it to rapidly outcompete native plants, reducing local biodiversity and altering natural habitats. The plant is also a considerable maintenance concern due to its extremely sharp leaf blades. The long, slender leaves have serrated edges that can easily cut skin, necessitating the use of heavy protective gear during pruning or removal.
Furthermore, the dense, dry foliage and stalks of the grass pose a substantial fire risk, particularly in drought-prone or wildfire-susceptible areas. The accumulated dry biomass ignites easily and burns intensely, acting as a fuel source that can accelerate the spread of wildfires. For these reasons, planting pampas grass is often discouraged or even banned in regions where it is deemed invasive or a fire hazard.