Pampas Grass Cortaderia selloana Silver Feather = 'Notcort' (v)

Names

• Synonyms

  Pampas Grass, Silver Feather Pampas Grass, Cortaderia Silver Feather

• Common names

  Cortaderia selloana 'Notcort'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Pampas grass, the common name for Cortaderia selloana, is not widely known for its toxicity when ingested by humans. There are no significant toxic effects associated with the consumption of pampas grass. However, the plant's sharp leaves can cause physical irritation or injury to the skin and eyes upon contact.

• To pets

  Pampas grass is generally not considered toxic to pets. However, if pets consume large quantities of the plant, it may lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea due to mechanical irritation from the plant's tough, blade-like leaves. It's also important to note that the sharp leaves can cause physical injury to pets, similar to humans, if they come into contact with sensitive areas.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters)

• Spread

  4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)

• Plant type

  Grass

• Hardiness zones

  7-10

• Native area

  South America

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Pampas grass 'Silver Feather' is a visually striking ornamental plant that adds texture and movement to the landscape with its tall feathery plumes.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, pampas grass is quite drought-resistant, making it a sustainable choice for water-wise gardens.
• Low Maintenance: This grass requires minimal care beyond cutting back once a year, and it does not need regular fertilization or watering.
• Privacy Screen: With its dense growth habit, pampas grass can be used as an effective, natural screen for privacy in the garden.
• Wildlife Habitat: The tall plumes and dense foliage provide shelter for birds and other wildlife within the landscape.
• Soil Erosion Control: The root system of pampas grass helps to prevent soil erosion, especially on slopes and in coastal areas where erosion can be a problem.
• Seasonal Interest: Pampas grass has a long period of interest, with plumes lasting from late summer through winter, providing seasonal beauty.
• Variety of Uses: Can be used in mass plantings, as a specimen plant, or incorporated into mixed borders for added height and texture.
• Tolerates a Range of Soils: Pampas grass adapts to a variety of soil conditions, from sandy to clay, as long as the site is well-drained.
• Wind Resistance: Its sturdy form and deep roots enable pampas grass to withstand strong winds without damage.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Sound Barrier – Pampas Grass can be used as a natural sound barrier; its dense foliage and tall plumes can help dampen traffic noise or other neighborhood sounds when planted in a thick row.
• Privacy Screen – Due to its size and density, Pampas Grass is often planted to create a quick-growing privacy screen, separating different areas of a garden or shielding a property from view.
• Erosion Control – Its extensive root system helps to stabilize soil, making it suitable for planting on slopes or areas prone to erosion.
• Windbreaks – The robust nature of Pampas Grass allows it to act as a windbreak, protecting smaller plants and garden areas from strong winds.
• Craft Material – The dried plumes of Pampas Grass are commonly used in dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and for other craft purposes due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Seasonal Decoration – Pampas Grass is often used as a decorative element in autumn displays because of its towering feathery plumes that retain their shape and color well when dried.
• Themed Gardens – Pampas Grass can add a dramatic element to a variety of themed gardens, including tropical, desert, or seaside-inspired landscapes.
• Wildlife Habitat – Although not native to North America, the grass can provide shelter for certain small animals and birds in the garden environment.
• Façade Softening – Pampas Grass can be planted along the edges of buildings to help soften the hard lines of urban and suburban structures, blending them more naturally into the landscape.
• Statement Plant – Due to its distinctive appearance, Pampas Grass is often used as a statement plant in garden designs, serving as a focal point because of its grand size and eye-catching plumes.

Feng Shui

Pampas Grass is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Pampas Grass is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Beauty and Elegance: With its striking silvery plumes, Cortaderia selloana, commonly known as Pampas Grass, symbolizes beauty and elegance, reflecting its graceful and sophisticated appearance.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Pampas Grass is known for its ability to thrive in various climates and conditions, representing resilience and the ability to adapt to life's challenges.
• Privacy and Protection: Due to its dense growth, Pampas Grass is often used as a natural privacy barrier in landscapes, symbolizing the need for personal space and protection.
• Wealth and Luxury: The lush and full look of Pampas Grass, along with its association with upscale home decor, has made it a symbol of wealth and luxury.
• Freedom and Free Spirit: The way the feathery plumes of Pampas Grass move freely in the wind can symbolize a sense of freedom and a free-spirited nature.