Cortaderia selloana 'Pumila'
Dwarf Pampas Grass
Botanical name: Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’
Overview
A compact selection of pampas grass valued for its silvery-white plumes and smaller, more manageable size compared to standard forms. Feathery flower plumes appear in late summer and persist into winter, rising above dense mounds of arching green foliage. ‘Pumila’ provides bold texture and vertical interest while fitting more easily into residential landscapes.
Size
Width: 4–6 ft
Height: 5–8 ft (including plumes)
Hardiness
USDA Zones: 6b–10b
Light
Full sun
Best plume production occurs in full sun
Soil
Well-drained soils; tolerant of sandy or loamy soils
Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH
Avoid heavy, poorly drained soils
Attracts
Birds (shelter and nesting material)
Suitable Conditions
Performs best in warm, sunny climates
Drought tolerant once established
Allow space for clump expansion and air circulation
Notes
Shape: Dense, fountain-shaped clump
Smaller and earlier blooming than standard pampas grass
Plumes useful for fresh or dried arrangements
Cut back foliage in late winter before new growth
Wear gloves when handling foliage due to sharp leaf edges
- Plant type
- Ornamental Grass
- Height
- 5-8'
- Width
- 4-6'
- Hardiness zones
- 6–10
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Bloom time
- Fall, Late Summer, Winter
- Fall color
- Blue Green
- Soil
- Loamy, Moist well-drained, Sandy
- Landscape use
- Accent Plant, Border, Mass Planting
- Shape
- Clumping
- Fruit
- Yes
- Drought tolerant
- Yes
