What is Pampas Grass?
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a tall, reed-like grass of the family Poaceae, native to southern South America. Pampas grass is named for the Pampas plains, where it is endemic.
It is cultivated as an ornamental plant in warm parts of the world and is considered an invasive species in some areas outside its native range, including New Zealand, South Africa, and the southwestern United States.
13 Different Types of Pampas Grass
1. Cortaderia selloana ‘Aureolineata’ – Golden Stripe Pampas Grass
Golden Stripe pampas grass is a slow-growing yet striking variety, with slender leaves marked by warm gold stripes. It produces plumes in golden-tan to creamy white tones, making it a perfect fit for rustic interiors, autumn wedding arrangements, or large statement floor vases in warm-toned rooms.
Its understated golden hue works beautifully alongside dried wheat, eucalyptus, and neutral florals. When dried, it holds its shape and colour well for two to three years if kept away from direct sunlight, though the gold tones may soften slightly over time.
2. Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Stripe’ – Silver Stripe Pampas Grass
With silvery-white striped leaves and feather-like plumes, Silver Stripe pampas brings a cool, sophisticated touch to arrangements. The plumes have a subtle silver sheen that complements minimalist, coastal, or winter-themed décor, and they’re equally at home in modern bridal bouquets.
This variety has a clean, bright look that stands out in contemporary interiors, especially when paired with white ceramics or glass vases. Dried plumes remain pristine for several years, although the silver shimmer can mellow with age.
3. Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’ – Dwarf Pampas Grass
Compact and versatile, Pumila is perfect for smaller spaces or arrangements where height is not the main focus. Its plumes come in a variety of shades, from soft ivory and pale yellow to gentle pinks, offering a wide colour palette for both muted and playful designs.
It’s ideal for table centrepieces, mantelpiece displays, or intimate event settings, and because of its smaller size, it’s easy to handle and arrange. The plumes stay in excellent condition for years, though pink tones naturally fade more quickly to beige.
4. Cortaderia selloana ‘Sunningdale Silver’ – Sunningdale Silver Pampas Grass
Tall, graceful, and topped with silvery plumes that can carry a blush-pink tint, Sunningdale Silver is a dramatic choice for large-scale event backdrops or wedding arches.
Its height and airy texture make it ideal for filling tall vases in hotel lobbies or reception areas. Less prone to clumping than some varieties, it offers a generous spread of plumes for cutting.
When preserved, the colour shifts subtly to a warmer beige over two to four years, but the overall structure remains strong and eye-catching.
5. Cortaderia selloana ‘Rosea’ – Pink Pampas Grass
Rosea is the romantic’s choice, with soft, rosy-pink plumes emerging from tightly clumped foliage. It’s perfect for wedding décor, boutique displays, and feminine interior styling, especially for spring or summer events.
The warm pink tones pair well with blush roses, champagne-hued blooms, and soft fabrics like chiffon or linen. While the colour will gently fade to beige within a year or so, the stems remain sturdy and usable for much longer.
6. Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Fountain’ – Silver Fountain Pampas Grass
Silver Fountain pampas has long, arching green leaves and large silver-white plumes that bring a fresh, clean look to arrangements. Its elegant form works beautifully in modern interiors, minimalist arrangements, and neutral wedding décor, especially when combined with muted greens or soft greys.
The plumes are naturally fluffy and hold their structure well for up to three years when dried, making them a practical choice for long-lasting installations.
7. Cortaderia selloana ‘Splendid Star’ – Splendid Star Dwarf Pampas Grass
Small but showy, Splendid Star pampas is well-suited to patios, balconies, and compact displays. It features gold-streaked leaves and pure white plumes, making it a striking accent in container plantings or small decorative vases.
It’s particularly appealing in arrangements where space is limited but impact is still desired. Its compact plumes shed less than larger varieties and stay bright for up to three years with proper care.
8. Cortaderia selloana ‘Sun Stripe’ – Sun Stripe Pampas Grass
Sun Stripe pampas combines gold-striped leaves with silver-white plumes, creating a versatile look that works well for both garden border displays and indoor rustic arrangements. Its tall stems make it suitable for statement pieces in large vases, and the warm foliage colour makes it especially appealing in autumnal décor.
Once dried, the plumes retain their shape for years, although the gold variegation in the leaves fades after preservation.
9. Cortaderia selloana ‘Patagonia’ – Patagonia Pampas Grass
Patagonia pampas stands out with its grey-green foliage and tall silver-white plumes that can reach up to 2.5 metres. It’s a bold choice for large interior spaces or event entrances, where its height can create a dramatic visual impact.
It’s clean, crisp colouring works beautifully in monochrome or neutral palettes. Strong stems and dense plumes allow it to last for three years or more when dried, with minimal colour change.
10. Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Comet’ – Silver Comet Pampas Grass
Best known for its foliage, Silver Comet has striking white-edged leaves and plumes that, while less showy, add gentle texture to arrangements.
It’s a great choice for botanical displays that focus on leaf form as much as flowers, and it works particularly well in mixed-grass arrangements. While the plumes may lose their fluff a little sooner than other varieties, the foliage dries attractively and can be used in arrangements for several years.
11. Cortaderia jubata ‘Andean Pampas Grass’ – Andean or Purple Pampas Grass
This towering variety can reach heights of up to seven metres outdoors, making it a favourite for bold event styling. Its plumes begin in a vibrant pink-purple before fading to cream, creating a natural ombré effect over time.
It’s ideal for festival installations, grand wedding arches, or outdoor statement décor. The purple tones fade within a couple of years, but the strong stems and large plumes maintain their form for much longer.
12. Saccharum ravennae ‘Erianthus’ – Hardy Pampas Grass / Elephant Grass / Ravenna Grass
Although not a true pampas grass, Erianthus is often used in the same way thanks to its tall, feathery silver-white plumes and striking striped foliage that turns bronze in winter. It brings a wild, meadow-like quality to arrangements, making it perfect for rustic weddings and autumn displays.
The plumes can last three years or more when dried, and the bronze tones in the foliage deepen beautifully over time.
13. Artificial Pampas Grass
Artificial pampas grass offers all the elegance and texture of natural varieties without the upkeep. Made from high-quality silk, polyester, or other synthetic fibres, it’s designed to mimic the soft plumes and graceful stems of real pampas, often in shades ranging from creamy white and beige to muted pinks and taupes.
This makes it a versatile choice for year-round décor, especially in spaces where natural dried stems might be at risk from humidity or wear. With no shedding, no need for sunlight, and complete resistance to fading, artificial pampas can last indefinitely, making it a sustainable and budget-friendly alternative for those who want the look without the limitations.
Choosing the Right Pampas for the Occasion
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For weddings: ‘Rosea’ and ‘Sunningdale Silver’ offer elegance and romance, while ‘Pumila’ works well for table settings. Need help with a Wedding bouquet - read our guide to dried wedding bouquets.
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For minimalist interiors: ‘Silver Stripe’ and ‘Silver Fountain’ deliver clean lines and cool tones.
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For bold statement pieces: ‘Andean Pampas’ and ‘Patagonia’ create dramatic scale, perfect for large events or entrance displays. Works well with the Bunny Tail plant.
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For rustic and autumn décor: ‘Aureolineata’ and ‘Sun Stripe’ bring warmth and seasonal charm.
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For small spaces: ‘Splendid Star’ and ‘Pumila’ are compact without losing impact.
With the right variety, pampas grass can transform any space or occasion, adding height, softness, and a timeless natural aesthetic that lasts for years when properly dried and cared for.
Pampas Grass Height Guide
While you will be able to shape your Pampas however you need, here is a handy height guide so you know how tall you can get your Pampas.
| Variety | Common Colour(s) | Typical Height |
|---|---|---|
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Aureolineata’ | Golden-tan to creamy white plumes; gold-striped leaves | Up to 1.8 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Stripe’ | White plumes with silver sheen; silvery-striped leaves | Up to 2.5 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’ | Ivory, pale yellow, soft pink | Up to 1.75 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Sunningdale Silver’ | Silvery plumes with slight pink tint | Up to 3 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Rosea’ | Rosy pink plumes | Around 1.8 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Fountain’ | Silver-white plumes; green leaves | Up to 2.5 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Splendid Star’ | White plumes; gold-streaked leaves | Around 1.2 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Sun Stripe’ | Silver-white plumes; gold-striped leaves | Over 2 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Patagonia’ | Silver-white plumes; grey-green foliage | Up to 2.5 m |
| Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Comet’ | Duller plumes; white-edged leaves | Around 1.5 m |
| Cortaderia jubata ‘Andean Pampas Grass’ | Pink-purple plumes ageing to cream | Up to 7 m |
| Saccharum ravennae ‘Erianthus’ | Silver-white plumes; striped foliage turning bronze | Over 3.5 m |
How to Care for Pampas Grass
Fluffing Pampas Grass
When you purchase pampas grass, it may well arrive in a box and look quite flat and unimpressive. The easiest way to get it looking voluminous and fluffy is to stand it up in a sturdy vase and pop it outside in a gentle breeze - as long as it’s not raining!
The air will allow the plumes to open up and return to their natural state. If you’re short of time, use a hair dryer on its lowest setting to gently encourage the plume to fluff up. Leaving the plumes upright in a container until you need to use them will keep them looking great!
Protecting Pampas Grass
To protect pampas grass, keep it away from direct sunlight, humidity, and strong drafts, which can cause fading, shedding, or drooping. Lightly misting with hairspray can help hold the plumes in place, while gentle dusting keeps them looking fresh. Store unused stems upright in a dry, cool space to maintain their shape for years.
Pampas Grass Development
Many pampas grass cultivars have been developed by horticulturalists over the years, with some of these showing pink-white plumes, while others have silver-white plumes, variegated foliage or a dwarf growth habit. Once a main feature in many gardens in the 1970s, this grass had fallen out of favour until a resurgence around 2019 with the re-emergent trend of dried flowers giving it a new audience. Some parts of the UK even experienced influxes of ‘pampas tourists’, who would descend upon places that had it growing in the wild, and take it.
Ask the Expert: Pampas Grass FAQs
1. How long does dried pampas grass last?
With proper care, dried pampas grass can last anywhere from two to five years. Keeping it out of direct sunlight, away from humidity, and handling it gently will help preserve its colour and fluffiness.
To read more about caring for dried flowers, read here.
2. Can pampas grass be used outdoors?
While pampas grass looks stunning in outdoor displays, dried stems are best kept indoors to avoid damage from rain, wind, and prolonged sun exposure. For outdoor styling, consider fresh-cut stems or high-quality artificial pampas.
3. How do I stop pampas grass from shedding?
A light mist of hairspray applied from a distance can help lock in the plumes and reduce shedding. Be sure to dust the stems gently to keep them looking fresh without breaking the delicate fibres.
4. How do I dry pampas grass without hairspray?
To dry pampas grass without hairspray, tie the stems upside down and hang them in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated place for a few weeks. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mould and allow the grass to dry thoroughly.
Once dried, gently fluff the plumes and consider using a hairdryer on a cool setting to enhance the fluffy look.
Want to learn more about drying flowers at home? Read our guide here.
4. Where can I get some inspiration on how to use Pampas Grass?
Look at our Pampas-themed Pinterest board here.