The Q&A Archives: Difference in pampas grasses

Question: I have established pampas grass, how can you tell the difference in dwarf size or regular. Mine have a white plume.

Answer: There are many different types of ornamental grasses, and sometimes people call them all pampas grass as a generic name. The plant most often specifically called Pampas Grass is Cortaderia selloana. Cortaderia solloana 'Pumila' is a dwarf form with the grass foliage being about 3 to 5 feet high and the flowering stems about 6 feet long. The species is overall larger with flowering stalks closer to 10 feet. The fluffy white plume itself is also larger, nearly three feet long. Neither of these is hardy in your area, however, so perhaps you have a different grass altogether. Your local professional nursery staff may be able to help you identify it from photos. I hope this helps.

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