Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’ – A Compact Pampas Grass
Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’ is a more compact form of pampas grass, valued for its dense clumps of arching green foliage and elegant, creamy-white feathery plumes. Flowering from late summer into autumn, the upright plumes rise above the foliage, adding movement, texture, and architectural interest without the overwhelming size of standard varieties. The plumes remain attractive well into winter, providing long-lasting seasonal appeal.
Ideal for smaller gardens and mixed borders, ‘Pumila’ delivers the dramatic look of pampas grass in a more manageable, garden-friendly size.
Why Grow Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’?
Compact Growth Habit – Smaller and more controlled than standard pampas grass varieties.
Elegant Creamy Plumes – Produces feathery flower heads from late summer to autumn.
Architectural Impact – Adds height, texture, and movement without dominating the space.
Long Season of Interest – Plumes persist into winter, extending garden appeal.
Low Maintenance – Hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and easy to grow.
Height and Spread
Typically grows to 1.5–2m (5–6.5ft) in height, including plumes, with a spread of 1–1.5m (3–5ft).
Where to Site Your Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’
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Mixed Borders: Adds texture and height
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Smaller Gardens: Offers architectural impact without excessive size
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Specimen Planting: Creates a strong focal point
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Coastal Gardens: Tolerant of wind and salt spray
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Contemporary Designs: Complements modern planting schemes
How to Grow and Care
Soil – Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates poor soils but dislikes waterlogging.
Light – Full sun for best flowering and compact growth.
Watering – Water regularly while establishing; drought-tolerant once mature.
Maintenance
Pruning – Cut back hard in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Mulching – Mulch around the base to protect roots and improve soil condition.
Pests & Diseases – Generally pest- and disease-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Architectural Plants: Yucca, Phormium, Cordyline
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Grasses: Miscanthus or Stipa for layered texture
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Perennials: Echinacea, Verbena, or Rudbeckia
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Shrubs: Lavender or Santolina for contrast
Conclusion
Cortaderia selloana ‘Pumila’ is a compact, hardy pampas grass with elegant creamy plumes and long-lasting interest. Perfect for smaller gardens and mixed borders, it delivers dramatic structure and movement with minimal maintenance.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.