Botanical Name: Cortaderia selloana

Common Name: White Pampas Grass

Mature Height and Width:
6–8′ tall × 6–8′ wide (foliage)
8–12′ tall in bloom

Growth Habit: Large, bold, clump-forming ornamental grass with a dense basal crown and strongly arching blades. Forms a substantial, fountain-like mass with dramatic vertical plume display. Fast-growing in warm climates.

Foliage Description: Long, coarse-textured, gray-green blades with sharp margins. Leaves arch outward aggressively from a dense central clump, creating a wide footprint. Semi-evergreen in mild winters (Zone 7); foliage may brown back in colder winters.

Flower Description: Large, feathery white plumes held well above the foliage on tall, sturdy stems. Plumes are full, soft, and upright at emergence, gradually loosening slightly with age.

Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall

Fall Color: Foliage may transition to tan; plumes persist into winter if left standing.

Light Requirements: Full sun for best plume production and strongest structure.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 7–10 (marginal Zone 6 with protection)

Notable Landscape Uses:
Large specimen grass; property line screening; driveway island focal point; coastal plantings; bold architectural accent; large-scale massing; modern landscape designs.

Deer Resistance: High
Large ornamental grasses such as Pampas are rarely browsed by deer. Established plants typically experience minimal damage even in moderate pressure areas.