Is pampas grass hardy?

Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is a striking ornamental grass with impressive plumes on long stems. The white, creamy white, to silvery-gray plumes appear around the end of summer or early fall. The long, narrow leaves of pampas grass remain green in winter and are quite stiff. Cortaderia selloana can grow to a height of about 2.5–3.5 meters and develops into a robust plant. Over time, this plant also spreads out quite widely. For a small garden, dwarf pampas grass varieties (such as Cortaderia pumila) may be a better option. Pampas grass is native to the grasslands of South America. The question, then, is whether this unique and beautiful pampas grass is hardy in our climate.

Is Cortaderia (pampas grass) hardy?

Pampas grass is hardy down to at least about -15°C. Older plants usually do not need winter protection. However, it is advisable to protect young plants in the winter so they do not suffer frost damage—even during moderate frosts.

A key factor in helping pampas grass survive the winter is well-drained soil. If pampas grass is planted in soil that’s too wet during the winter, it can still result in damage or even plant loss. So choosing the right spot is important: Make sure to plant it in a location that isn’t too wet. Wet clay soil, for example, isn’t ideal in the winter.

How do you protect young pampas grass from frost and cold?

Young pampas grass is less hardy. It is recommended that you protect it during the winter. Tie the leaves together and then cover the young plants with garden fabric or burlap. This is enough to help the pampas grass survive the winter.

If you have Cortaderia in a pot, place it in a sheltered spot, or even a frost-free spot if possible. It’s especially important that Cortaderia doesn’t get too wet in the winter. For example, place a pot with pampas grass under a canopy or a roof overhang during the winter.

Frost damage to pampas grass after all?

If the pampas grass does suffer frost damage—for example, on young plants or those in a less-than-ideal location—this doesn’t necessarily mean the end of your ornamental grass. In early spring, prune the plant back to just above the ground, just as you normally would. There’s a good chance that new shoots will still grow over time! In that case, it may take a little longer for the grass to sprout again.

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