Ornamental grassesCortaderia selloana
Pampas Grass
Pampas Grass is an imposing ornamental grass with tall, silvery or pink plumes rising above narrow, arching foliage from September to November. The plumes can reach 3.5 metres and provide a spectacular autumn and winter silhouette. A true eye-catcher in any garden.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 200–350 cm
- Spread
- 150–250 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–11
- Family
- Poaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- white, pink
- Wildlife value
- birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant and requires little water once established. In harsh winters, protect with a thick layer of straw or tie the foliage together. Caution: leaf edges are razor-sharp — wear gloves.
Pruning tips
Cut back old foliage in early spring (March) to about 30 cm above ground before new growth appears. Wear thick gloves and long sleeves — the leaf edges cut like knives. Also remove old plumes.
Good companions
Ornamental grassesMiscanthus sinensis
Chinese Silver Grass
Chinese Silver Grass is a striking ornamental grass that adds structure to any garden with its tall plumes and gracefully arching leaves. Silvery-white plumes appear from August to October and catch the autumn and winter light beautifully. The dried grass remains attractive throughout winter.
Ornamental grassesPennisetum alopecuroides
Fountain Grass
Fountain grass is an elegant ornamental grass that produces soft, bottlebrush-like plumes from August to October. The grass forms a dense, mound-shaped tussock and looks its best when backlit, with sunlight filtering through the feathery plumes. The flower heads and foliage turn warm golden-brown in autumn.
PerennialsVerbena bonariensis
Tall Verbena
Tall Verbena is a graceful perennial with slender stems carrying clouds of purple flower clusters. Blooming from June until the first frost, it is a magnet for butterflies. Its airy, see-through habit makes it ideal for weaving through other plants in borders.