Overview
Cortaderia selloana is a grass in the genus Cortaderia, part of the Poaceae family. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Cortaderia selloana grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Temp. S America.
About the genus
Cortaderia is a genus of plants in the Poaceae or grass family of plants.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cortaderia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cortaderia
In the garden
Cortaderia selloana, known as pampas grass, is a large grass species reaching around 3.0 m and originating from temperate South America. Its size and upright habit are defining features, so allow adequate space when planting. Flowering occurs from August to October. Plant where it receives full sun and in soil that can be sandy, loamy or clay; the key is good drainage, although it will tolerate moist but well-drained conditions. In UK hardiness terms it is rated H5 (hardy) and it corresponds to USDA zones 7–11, so it will withstand typical winter conditions in many parts of the country. Positioning should account for its eventual height and the space it requires. Use the species where a tall grass is required and where a sunny, open location is available; give plants room from boundaries and structures to avoid overcrowding as they mature. Expect the stand to reach roughly 3.0 m and to produce its flowering display between August and October.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cortaderia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Cortaderia selloana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Height
- 3.0 m
- Native to
- Temp. S America
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cortaderia selloana?
Cortaderia selloana prefers full sun.
What soil does Cortaderia selloana need?
Cortaderia selloana is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Cortaderia selloana grow?
Cortaderia selloana reaches a height of 3.0 m.
Is Cortaderia selloana hardy in the UK?
Cortaderia selloana has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Cortaderia genus
- Cortaderia fulvidatoetoe
- Cortaderia richardiitoe toe
- Cortaderia selloana 'Albo-lineata'Pampas Grass 'Albo-lineata'
- Cortaderia selloana 'Aureo-lineata'Pampas Grass 'Aureo-lineata'
- Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina'Pampas Grass 'Kermesina'
- Cortaderia selloana 'Monstrosa'pampas grass 'Monstrosa'
- Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila'pampas grass 'Pumila'
- Cortaderia selloana 'Rendatleri'pampas grass 'Rendatleri'