With its tufts of feathers, pampas grass is one of the most decorative ornamental grasses. Therefore, every gardener strives for a lush flowering season. Patience is required, because the grass that has migrated blooms late in this country.
Flowering time of pampas grass
In the first years of life, pampas grass, scientifically Cortaderia selloana , does not bloom at all. Depending on how young your specimen is, you may still have one or two flowerless years ahead of you. You can only counteract this if you buy plants that have already been grown in stores.
The flowering window
Only when the local summer draws to a close does the flower show of this immigrant sweet grass variety begin. Usually in September, sporadically as early as August. Until October or even November, the large, mostly white, silvery or pink flower panicles are enthroned on their up to 2.5 m long stalks. In purely mathematical terms, however, the flowering period extends over four calendar months. But here’s a closer look at the variety.
Flowering times of different varieties
Various types of pampas grass are commercially available. The main difference lies in the color nuance of the flowers. But the point in time when these show up also depends on the variety. Below is a list of common varieties in this country:
- Citaro: August to November
- Evita: August to October
- Lilliput: September to November
- Mini silver: September bis November
- Line up: September to October
- Pink Spring: September to November
- Rosea: September to October
- Senior: September to October
- Silverstar: September to October
- Splendid Star: September bis November
- Sunningdale Silver: September bis Oktober
- White Feather: September to October
- White: August to October
Secure and promote flowering
Cortaderia selloana originally comes from warm South America and New Zealand. In order for the flowering period to start on time and last as long as possible, we have to offer the pampas grass ideal living conditions and optimal care. Both also contribute to the fact that the grass drives out many flowers. Here is an overview of beneficial factors:
- a warm and sunny location
- loose and humus rich soil
- moderately moist soil without dryness and waterlogging
- Protective measures in winter (cover made of brushwood or fleece)
- annual pruning in spring
- monthly nutrient supply in the growing season
- a mulch layer
Enjoy the flowering period longer
Under ideal conditions, each strain makes the most of its flowering time frame. Even “good” weather cannot extend the period significantly. Nevertheless, you can enjoy the abundance of flowers after they have faded:
- withered and dried panicles remain decorative
- Dry panicles of flowers and use them to make dried bouquets
- alternatively leave on the plant until spring
