Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila', Dwarf Pampas Grass
1 / 3
Grasses

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila'

Dwarf Pampas Grass

PoaceaeSouth America

At a Glance

Typeperennial grass
Habitclumping fountain-like
Foliagesemi-evergreen
Height4-5 feet
Width4-5 feet

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

7a - 10b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
Zone 10a
Zone 10b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' is a compact ornamental grass cultivar that brings the dramatic beauty of pampas grass to smaller garden spaces. This dwarf selection forms an elegant fountain of narrow, arching leaves that emerge from a central crown, creating a symmetrical mound typically reaching 4-5 feet in height and width. The sharp-edged foliage is blue-green to gray-green in color, with finely serrated margins that require careful handling to avoid cuts. The most spectacular feature of Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' is its late-season plume display. From late summer through fall, the plant produces striking silvery-white to cream-colored feathery plumes that rise 1-2 feet above the foliage on sturdy stems. These architectural flower heads persist through winter, providing valuable structural interest and movement in the dormant garden. Unlike the imposing 8-12 foot stature of the species, this cultivar maintains a more manageable scale while delivering similar ornamental impact, making it an excellent choice for residential landscapes where space is at a premium.

Native Range

Cortaderia selloana is native to the pampas regions of South America, particularly Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay, where it grows naturally in grasslands and open plains.

Suggested Uses

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' works well as a specimen plant, in mixed perennial borders, or as a dramatic focal point in contemporary landscape designs. Its architectural form makes it excellent for modern gardens, xeriscapes, and low-water landscapes. The grass provides effective screening when planted in groups and creates beautiful textural contrast when combined with broad-leafed perennials or shrubs. The plumes are valuable for cut flower arrangements and dried decorations. This cultivar is particularly suited to coastal gardens where it tolerates salt spray and wind.

How to Identify

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' can be identified by its distinctive fountain-like growth habit with narrow, arching leaves that have razor-sharp serrated edges. The foliage forms a symmetrical clump typically 4-5 feet tall and wide, significantly smaller than the towering species form. The leaves are blue-green to gray-green in color and emerge from a central crown. The most diagnostic feature appears in late summer to fall when spectacular silvery-white to cream plumes rise 1-2 feet above the foliage on stiff stems. These feathery panicles are much smaller than those of the species but equally striking, persisting through winter months. The overall silhouette is unmistakably pampas grass but in a compact, garden-friendly scale that distinguishes this cultivar from both the species and other ornamental grasses.

Appearance

Bloom Information

late summer through fall, with plumes persisting through winter

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

silvery-white to cream

Foliage Description

blue-green to gray-green

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun

Soil pH

6.0-8.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

drought tolerant once established

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

2-3 years

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' requires minimal care once established, making it an excellent low-maintenance landscape choice. Plant in full sun with well-draining soil, as the grass tolerates poor soils but cannot survive in waterlogged conditions. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then reduce watering as the plant becomes drought tolerant. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote vigorous growth and plume production. The grass is relatively pest and disease free but benefits from good air circulation. In areas with high humidity, ensure adequate spacing to prevent fungal issues. Remove spent flower heads if self-seeding is a concern in your region.

Pruning

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut the entire clump back to 12-18 inches from ground level using sharp pruning shears or hedge clippers. Wear long sleeves and gloves as the leaf edges are extremely sharp and can cause cuts. Some gardeners prefer to leave the attractive plumes for winter interest and cut back in early spring. If desired, flower stalks can be harvested in fall for dried arrangements. Remove only dead or damaged foliage during the growing season, avoiding heavy pruning which can stress the plant.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' is not considered toxic to humans or pets, but the extremely sharp leaf edges can cause painful cuts and lacerations if handled carelessly. Always wear protective clothing when working around this plant.