There are a limited number of ornamental plants which are so spectacular within their appearance, they can really transform a garden from being ordinary to being special. One of these brilliant may be the Pampas grass, Cortaderia sellowiana, from Argentina. Unfortunately it is also highly problematical to maintain, and even dangerous to those who utilize the garden. This is the pity, because as a massive ornamental grass, it really is possibly unmatched in its capacity to provide drama and a sense of movement in the garden.
The danger comes from the leaves of the Pampas grass. They're serrated across the edge, making them as sharp as a carpenter's saw. In fact the plant's botanical name, Cortaderia, originates from the Spanish word cortar, "to cut". That is why Pampas grass shouldn't be planted where children will probably run about and play, nor near paths and entrance ways. pampas grass dried Considering that it could cover some 2 meters wide, it can only be looked at as an option in the garden, when granted a lot of space.
Another serious problem connected with Cortaderia is its potential to spread being an uncontrollable weed, so much in order that some plant nurseries in the US have stopped propagating the species altogether. The danger only arises though when male and female plants are to be within each others proximity. In Israel, where I result from, we don't have this problem, because the plants are propagated vegetatively, from female specimens only.
Design considerations
The Pampas grass, as well as its massive plumes, can reach a height of 3-5 meters, spreading outwards from its base to create a big clump some 1-2 meters wide. The blooms, particularly the female ones, are particularly beautiful. Clearly, the role of the plant is that of a focal point. In this regard, general design knowledge and good taste enter into play. As the dominant aspect in a composition, it should not have to compete for attention with other eye catching elements like flower beds, sculptural plants, or species with unusually colored foliage.
As a grass, it obviously associates well with other ornamental grass-like plants. Indeed a whole composition could be built round the Pampas because the centerpiece, supported by grasses that reach about a meter in height like varieties of Miscanthus and Pennisetum setaceum, while a carpet is made of low growing plants of similar form and habit, such as Carex, Festuca, Liriope, and Ophiopogon japonicum.
Cortaderia is highly suited to gardening in a dry climate where water is at a premium. It can manage pretty much with modest additions through the dry months, requiring perhaps some 300mm over the year. Planted in a large bed of ornamental pebbles, it can create a stunning focal point, while the total water usage of the bed all together, could actually be less than 200mm per year. (200 liters per meter square)
Care and maintenance
The tendency of the Pampas grass to dry out at its base, in conjunction with the down sides gardeners have in eliminating dead parts of the plant, is another factor behind the reluctance to utilize the plant. However, this is another stumbling block that could be handled relative ease. The clump should simply be cut down to the bottom every 2-3 years, by using a hedge trimmer, or mechanical strimmer. (Weed whacker) The task is best completed towards the end of the wintertime.
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