Cortaderia selloana - 'Pumila' (Pampass Grass, Cortaderia)

Type Grass, Deciduous, Flowering
Form Spiky Foliage / Spiky Upright Form, Architectural Form
Size Medium Border Plant (50-180cm height)
Colours White Flowers (Autumn), Medium green Foliage
Care Some Maintenance Required - Tough Plant
Hardiness Very hardy, Drought Tolerant, Seaside Friendly
Growth Fast Growing Plant
Earmark this plant  

Cortaderia selloana description: This larger pampus requires plenty of space for its expansive arching foliage which can look over baring among lower growing plants. It is worth planting however for the huge and impressive plumes of white feathered spikes that will provide interest well into the winter months and can also but cut for indoor decoration. This Pampus looks best doted amongst mixed planting.

Cortaderia selloana cultivation notes: Cortaderia might be overly common in the UK but then that's because its reliable and it puts on a good show. Pampus will tolerate dry soils but does best in any half decent well drained soil,including sandy and chalky soils. It will need an open spot in full sun to flower well, but beware, winter cutting back of spent flower stems and sharp foliage is tough yet essential work, so wear gloves.

Plant Strengths: Sun loving drought tolerant plant; Spiney growth can deter unwanted visitors! All round tough plant suitable for problem areas; Provides valuable winter interest; Architectural plant – ideal as a ‘stand out’ plant; Suitable for exposed coastal planting; Attractive form or foliage for all year interest; Tolerates full sun and sandy, drought-prone soils; Tolerates heavy clay soils.

Plant Weaknesses: Invasive top growth; Spiney plant - can scratch young children and gardeners!

Design & Plant Use for Cortaderia selloana:
  • Autumn flowering ornamental grass for late seasonal interest
  • Architectural plant with dramatic foliage suitable for hot dry spot
  • Ornamental grass ideal for drift planting in a sunny spot

Common Missspellings: Coretaderia, Cortedaria, Cortiderea

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Cortaderia selloana - 'Pumila' (Pampass Grass, Cortaderia)
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