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At a Glance
TypeGrass
HabitClumping
FoliageSemi-evergreen
Height48-60 inches (120-150 cm)
Width48-60 inches (120-150 cm)
Maturity3 years
Overview
Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila' is the dwarf pampas grass, growing 48–60 inches (120–150 cm) tall and wide — approximately half the size of the species type, which reaches 96–144 inches (240–360 cm). White to cream feathery plumes 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) on stems above the foliage from late summer through fall. Blue-green narrow arching leaves with razor-sharp serrated margins — the leaf edges contain silica-embedded serrations that cause cuts (wear thick gloves and long sleeves when handling). In the grass family (Poaceae). The species C. selloana is classified as invasive in California, Hawaii, and parts of the southeastern US — the wind-dispersed seed colonizes disturbed ground, coastal bluffs, and roadsides. 'Pumila' is less aggressive than the species type but still self-seeds in mild climates — check local invasive species regulations before planting. Dioecious: female plants produce larger, showier plumes than male plants. The dried plumes persist through winter as a vertical structural element. Cut the entire clump to 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) in late winter before new growth. Drought-tolerant once established. Adapts to a wide range of soils including clay, sand, and alkaline conditions. Native to South America (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay). Non-toxic. Deer-resistant. Full sun (6+ hours). Zones 7–10. Growth rate is fast.
Native Range
Native to South America (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay), growing in grasslands (pampas) and along river margins.Suggested Uses
Grown in borders and as specimens in zones 7–10. The compact size (48–60 inches / 120–150 cm) fits smaller spaces than the species type. Classified as invasive in parts of the US — check local regulations. Razor-sharp leaf margins. Drought-tolerant. Non-toxic. Deer-resistant.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4' - 5'
Width/Spread4' - 5'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Bloom Information
Late summer to fall (August–October), lasting 6–8 weeks. White to cream feathery plumes 12–18 inches (30–45 cm). Dried plumes persist through winter. Female plants produce larger plumes.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White to cream plumes 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) on stems above the foliageFoliage Description
Blue-green, narrow, arching, with razor-sharp serrated marginsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Full sun (6+ hours). Drought-tolerant once established. Adapts to clay, sand, alkaline soil. Razor-sharp leaf margins — wear thick gloves. Classified as invasive in California, Hawaii, and southeastern US — check local regulations. Cut to 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) in late winter. Non-toxic. Deer-resistant. Zones 7–10.Pruning
Cut the entire clump to 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) in late winter (February–March) before new growth. Wear thick gloves and long sleeves (razor-sharp leaves). The clump can be burned instead of cut in rural settings (check fire regulations). Divide every 4–5 years with a sharp spade or saw.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
early spring
Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons