Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a perennial ornamental grass valued for its striking visual presence in landscapes and interior design. Characterized by its imposing height, often reaching up to 10 feet, it forms dense, arching clumps of foliage. The most distinctive feature is the large, feathery flower plumes that emerge in late summer and persist into winter, providing a textured focal point. These plumes, which range from silvery-white to pale pink, are popular in modern and “boho” home décor. The plant’s architectural form leads to its use in landscaping as a specimen plant, windbreak, or privacy screen.
Geographic Distribution and Native Range
The natural habitat of Cortaderia selloana is South America, specifically the grasslands and riparian areas of the Pampas region, which spans parts of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Within this native range, the plant typically grows in moist soil conditions, often along river margins and in low, wet areas. It is a robust species that has adapted to the temperate to subtropical climates of its origin.
The grass was introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant during the 19th century due to its aesthetic appeal. This global distribution led to its establishment in many non-native environments, including parts of the United States, Southern Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. It has proven to be highly adaptable, tolerating a wide variety of soil types and environmental conditions once established.
However, this adaptability has resulted in the plant becoming an invasive species in many regions outside of its native range. In areas like the Pacific coast of the U.S., pampas grass can spread aggressively, outcompeting native flora and forming dense stands. Its ability to produce up to 100,000 wind-dispersed seeds per flower head allows for rapid colonization.
Consequently, finding pampas grass growing in the wild in places like California, Oregon, or Washington State may mean encountering an actively managed invasive population. Due to the ecological threat it poses, many states and counties have implemented restrictions or outright bans on the sale or planting of the fertile species. This regulatory context makes commercial sources the primary and most responsible option for acquiring the plant.
Sources for Live Plants and Seeds
For gardeners looking to introduce pampas grass into their landscape, the most common source is a local nursery or garden center. These physical locations often stock live plants in containers, which allows for immediate planting. Availability at these stores is often seasonal, with the best selection found in the spring and early summer when planting is most common.
Large box hardware stores with extensive garden departments also carry live pampas grass, often at competitive prices. These retailers provide a convenient option for homeowners, though the selection of specific cultivars may be more limited than at a specialized nursery. Customers should verify the exact species or cultivar being sold to ensure it is suitable for their region.
Online plant retailers and specialized ornamental grass nurseries offer a wider array of both live plants and seeds. When purchasing online, especially seeds, buyers should be aware that the grass can take two to three years to mature and produce its characteristic plumes. The convenience of online shopping allows access to varieties that may not be available locally.
Gardeners should seek out sterile or non-invasive cultivars, particularly in regulated areas. The dwarf variety, Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila,’ is a sought-after cultivar because it is sterile and does not produce viable seeds, eliminating the risk of invasive spread. Choosing these non-seeding options allows gardeners to enjoy the plant’s aesthetic without contributing to environmental concerns.
Retailers for Dried Decorative Plumes
The dried plumes of pampas grass are a popular item for interior decoration and are sourced through a separate commercial channel. Dedicated florists and floral wholesalers are primary suppliers, often purchasing the plumes in bulk for use in large arrangements and event décor. These businesses typically offer plumes that have been professionally dried and sometimes treated for preservation.
A significant portion of the dried plumes market exists on major online marketplaces, such as Etsy and Amazon, where sellers offer bundles directly to consumers. These platforms allow for a wide range of colors and sizes, from small bouquets to extra-large stems. Home goods retailers, including large chain stores and online-only entities like Wayfair and West Elm, also feature pampas grass as part of their décor collections.
Craft supply stores like Michaels or Hobby Lobby often stock dried floral elements, including treated pampas grass plumes, for do-it-yourself projects. Purchasing from these established commercial sources is recommended because the plumes are typically sourced from farms cultivated specifically for the floral trade. Wild harvesting is discouraged as it can damage natural ecosystems and the plumes may not be properly treated or dried for indoor use.