Pampas Grass

Pampas grass is a tall perennial ornamental grass, scientifically known as *Cortaderia selloana*, in the family Poaceae.

Pampas grass is a tall perennial ornamental grass, scientifically known as *Cortaderia selloana* in the family Poaceae. It is native to southern South America and is widely grown for its large, silvery or white plume-like Flower heads. In some regions outside its native range, it is also considered invasive.

Description

Pampas grass is a tall, clump-forming perennial grass with long, sharp-edged leaves and large feathery flower plumes. The plumes are often silvery white, though cultivated forms may vary in appearance. Female plants produce the most conspicuous plume-like flower clusters.

Native range and habitat

The species is native to southern South America, including countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. It is associated with the Pampas region and in its natural range grows in damp soils and along river margins.

Cultivation and uses

Pampas grass has long been grown as an ornamental plant because of its height and distinctive plumes. It is used in landscape plantings and sometimes in dried floral arrangements.

Invasiveness

Outside its native range, pampas grass can spread by wind-dispersed seed and form dense stands. It is considered invasive or noxious in parts of North America, New Zealand, South Africa, and other regions.