Overview
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' is a grass in the genus Cortaderia, part of the Q43238 family. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to Southern South America.
About
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' is a tall ornamental grass that reaches about 3.0 m and flowers in late summer to autumn. It favours a sunny position and will grow in sandy, loamy or clay soils provided they are well drained yet retain some moisture. In UK conditions it is classed H5 (hardy). Allow space for its mature height and for flowering from August to October when siting.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cortaderia selloana
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 'Kermesina' is a large grass in the genus Cortaderia, native to southern South America. Its scale makes it unmistakable in the garden, and flowering occurs between August and October. Expect a specimen that occupies height rather than a small footprint, so plan planting positions with its mature size in mind. Select a location in full sun and avoid heavily shaded corners; the cultivar tolerates a range of soils — sandy, loamy or clay — as long as they are well drained while remaining reasonably moist. In the UK it carries an H5 rating (hardy), and it also corresponds to USDA zones 7–11, so it suits milder to temperate areas where winter cold is not extreme. Allow good air circulation around the base to reduce prolonged damp at soil level. Use Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' where a tall, single-plant statement or a backdrop is required rather than small mixed beds. Its height and flowering season make it most effective at the rear of large borders or as a stand-alone specimen where 3.0 m can be accommodated. Bear in mind the August to October flowering window when planning sightlines and planting distances.
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 'Kermesina' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Height
- 3.0 m
- Native to
- Southern South America
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina'?
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' prefers full sun.
What soil does Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' need?
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' 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 'Kermesina' grow?
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' reaches a height of 3.0 m.
Is Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' hardy in the UK?
Cortaderia selloana 'Kermesina' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
More in the Cortaderia genus
- Cortaderia fulvidatoetoe

- Cortaderia richardiitoe toe
- Cortaderia selloanapampas grass

- Cortaderia selloana 'Albo-lineata'Pampas Grass 'Albo-lineata'

- Cortaderia selloana 'Andes Silver'pampas grass 'Andes Silver'

- Cortaderia selloana 'Aureo-lineata'Pampas Grass 'Aureo-lineata'

- Cortaderia selloana 'Monstrosa'pampas grass 'Monstrosa'

- Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila'pampas grass 'Pumila'
