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Family description Cortaderia.

Cortaderia nearly always grows far too big for the garden in which it is planted and has become one of the most hated of garden plants. From the base, masses of long razor sharp narrow leaves arise and arch over to the ground to form an impenetrable mass. From this base of really nasty leaves, the flower stalks arise in late summer. These produce the silky tassels of creamy-white or occasionally pinkish-white plumes. Dwarf varieties exist but these never seem to have the impact of the larger types.

General care.

First of all, let's get rid of the idea about setting fire to them. While this is most unlikely to kill them, it is not good gardening practice. Apart from the possible damage to other plants or fences, etc. the clumps of leaves will be the hibernation quarters for the vast majority of the friendly insects such as ladybirds. Before commencing any maintenance on Pampas grass, it is most important to make sure you are well protected from the risk of injury from this plant. The edges of each leaf is lined with thousands of tiny saw teeth, each one as sharp as a razor, and any exposed flesh runs the risk of being cut to the bone. In late autumn or early winter, use garden shears to cut all the leaves back to a central block. Start by working round the plant, cutting away all that sticks outwards, then finish by cutting flat across the top. Gather up all the debris and dispose of safely then cheer the plant up with a mulch and sprinkle of slow acting fertilizer.

Notes on Toxicity or Culinary usage.

No toxic, culinary or medicinal properties known.

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Species description. Cortaderia selloana.

Tall perennial grass growing in massive tufts up to 2m across. Flower spikes are highly prized by flower arrangers.

Display characteristics for Cortaderia selloana.

• Plant type: Monocotyledon. Evergreen
• Habit:
• Type: Perennial.
• Height: 3.00 mtr.
• Spread: 2.00 mtr.
• Attractive to wildlife:
• Preferred soil type: Clay. Gravel. Loam. Sand. Silt.
• Soil moisture requirement: Medium
• Soil ph: Undefined
• Suitable position: Open ground. Border.
• Light requirements: Full sun. Part sun.
• Summer water requirements: Low
• Winter water requirements: None
• Minimum temperature: -20 °c
• Safe Minimum temperature: -10 °c
• Safe Maximum temperature: 30 °c
• Maximum temperature: 0 °c
• Wind tolerance: High
• Salt tolerance: None
• Drought tolerance: Medium
• Waterlogging tolerance: Medium
• Toxicity-Edibility: Unknown
• Bloom attributes: Flower arrangement. Dried flower. Showy display.
• Foliage attributes: Undefined
• Berry attributes: Undefined
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