Species

Cortaderia selloanaPampas Grass

6 other cultivars

grass

Pampas Grass

Cortaderia selloana 'Evita'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cortaderia selloana is a robust, evergreen perennial grass native to South America, characterized by its dense, fountain-like tussocks of razor-sharp, linear foliage. In late summer, the species produces towering, feathery flower panicles that persist into winter, providing architectural structure and wind-pollinated seed heads.

'Evita' is a compact, patented cultivar that reaches only five to six feet in height, making it significantly smaller and more manageable than the wild species. It features a refined, less sprawling habit and produces its silvery-white to pale cream plumes on shorter, erect stems.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural structure with compact, arching foliage and feathery, silvery-white plumes that last into winter.

Highly drought-tolerant once established and effective for erosion control on slopes and banks.

Offers dense cover and nesting materials for small birds and mammals, though it should be managed carefully to prevent spreading.

SpeciesCortaderia selloanaPampas Grass

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

79"

Width

59"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun with well-drained soil, as wet winter conditions can cause root rot.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container.
Water thoroughly at planting and maintain moderate moisture until the root system is fully established.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly in spring to support new growth without encouraging floppy foliage.

Pro Tip

Always wear heavy leather gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when working with this grass, as the serrated leaf margins easily slice through skin. Cut the entire clump back hard to six to twelve inches in late winter, ensuring you complete the task before new green shoots emerge to avoid ruining the upcoming season's form.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Wear heavy-duty protective gear including thick gloves and long sleeves when handling the foliage.
Prune the entire clump back to 6 to 12 inches above the ground in late winter.
Ensure the soil drains rapidly, especially in heavy clay or wet winter climates.

Don't

Do not shear the plant late in spring after new green growth has already started to emerge.
Do not plant this species in coastal areas directly exposed to heavy, salt-laden maritime spray.
Do not cut back into the old, leafless woody base of the clump, which can kill those stems.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen PlantingMass PlantingPrivacy ScreenArchitectural AccentErosion Control

Companion Plants

Muhlenbergia capillaris Panicum virgatum Rudbeckia fulgida Echinacea purpurea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pampas Grass questions

What zones can Pampas Grass grow in?

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 Pampas Grass deer resistant?

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

When does Pampas Grass bloom?

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

Does Pampas Grass need full sun?

Pampas Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Pampas Grass drought tolerant?

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