grass

Amber Waves Pampas Grass

Cortaderia selloana 'Amber Waves'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

72 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Leaves have sharp edges

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, clump-forming evergreen or semi-evergreen grass known for its long, sharp-edged, arching leaves and tall, dense, feathery panicles (plumes) in late summer and fall. It is a dominant and dramatic landscape plant. Distinctive for its spectacular, dense plumes that emerge a soft pinkish-amber and mature to a rich golden-yellow. 'Amber Waves' is a more compact form, valued for its vibrant, warm-toned flower heads that persist through winter.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides tall, elegant plumes that sway beautifully in the breeze, adding movement and texture to gardens.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for xeriscaping and sustainable gardens.

Attracts native birds with its seed heads, supporting local ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into well-drained soil in spring
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks
Mist cuttings in early spring for propagation
Plant in full sun for best growth
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Divide every 3–4 years to control size

Pro Tip

Choose a sunny, well-drained site for vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry spells 🌱
Prune back in late winter
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Don’t plant in shady areas
Refrain from heavy fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery‑foliaged hedgeVanilla‑scented border

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Russian Sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Amber Waves Pampas Grass questions

What zones can Amber Waves Pampas Grass grow in?

Amber Waves Pampas Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Amber Waves Pampas Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Amber Waves Pampas Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Amber Waves Pampas Grass bloom?

Amber Waves Pampas Grass typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Amber Waves Pampas Grass need full sun?

Amber Waves Pampas Grass does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Amber Waves Pampas Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Amber Waves Pampas Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.