Pampas Grass
Cortaderia selloana
Traits
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Pampas Grass
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a large, fast-growing clumping grass producing dramatic silvery-white to pink plumes in fall. It is highly tolerant of poor soils and drought. IMPORTANT: UF/IFAS has classified pampas grass as invasive in Florida's natural areas and no longer recommends it for landscape use; native muhly grass is a preferred alternative. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Fall
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Pampas grass requires full sun (6+ hours) and performs best in open, well-drained sites. It tolerates Florida heat and sandy soils but is CLASSIFIED AS INVASIVE in Florida by UF/IFAS and is not recommended for planting—consider native alternatives like muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris).
Extremely drought tolerant once established; rarely needs supplemental irrigation in NE Florida. Avoid wet or poorly drained soils. NOTE: UF/IFAS classifies pampas grass as invasive in Florida and does not recommend its use in landscapes.
Tolerates sandy, loam, and clay soils with little to no amendment. Fertilizer is seldom needed. UF/IFAS recommends against planting Cortaderia selloana in Florida due to its invasive potential; native muhly grass is a recommended substitute.
Similar needs
Fountain Grass
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Switchgrass
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Purple Top Grass
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Asiatic Jasmine
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Beautyberry
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Common questions
Is Pampas Grass a good plant for St. Augustine?
Pampas Grass is a grass for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 8-12 feet × 6-8 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.