Cortaderia selloana - 'Splendid Star' (Pampass Grass, Cortaderia)

This lower growing pampus requires less space for its arching foliage, which is almost blue green and reasonably attractive in its own right. It is worth growing for the huge plumes of white feathered flower spikes that will provide flower interest into the winter months. Plant in mixed borders to provide late interest with its impressive architectural plumage lasting well into the winter months.

Pampus grass might have been over planted but then that's because its tough and it puts on a good show. This particular variety has a more compact form so require less space and will grow happily among other grasses and herbaceous plants. Cortaderia will tolerate dry soils but prefers fertile yet well drained soil. It will need a sunny location to flower. It essential that you undertake winter cutting back of spent flower stems; sharp foliage is tough work so wear gloves. Mulch every few years.

Strengths of Cortaderia selloana:

• Sun loving drought tolerant plant
• Spiney growth can deter unwanted visitors!
• Tolerates cold exposed locations

Weaknesses of Cortaderia selloana

• Invasive top growth
• Spiney plant - can scratch young children and gardeners!
• Does not tolerate very dry or very wet soils

Design & Plant Use for Cortaderia selloana:

• Ornamental grass ideal for drift planting in a sunny spot

Common Missspellings: Coretaderia, Cortedaria, Cortiderea

View all the plants listed in Genus Cortaderia

View other grasses with white flowers, or grasses with dark green foliage