Cortaderia 'Rosea'

Cortaderia selloana 'Rosea': A Blush of Grandeur in the Late Garden

Tall, elegant, and softly showy, Cortaderia 'Rosea' is a refined pampas grass that brings a romantic lift to the landscape. Its arching green blades form a substantial, fountain-like clump, crowned in late summer by plumes of silvery pink that shimmer in the light and move gracefully in the breeze. The soft blush tones contrast beautifully with bold perennials and golden fall foliage, offering height, motion, and an airy sense of drama at a time when the garden begins to glow.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 200–250 cm in bloom
• Spread: 120–150 cm, forming a broad, upright clump
• Flower Colour: Soft pink, fading to pale buff
• Flowering Period: Late summer to early fall
• Foliage: Narrow, arching green blades with fine texture and strong vertical line
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established

Uses and Benefits: Cortaderia 'Rosea' lends height and lightness to large borders, open meadows, and coastal or prairie-inspired plantings. Its plumes add softness and a sense of movement, while the robust clump anchors the space with bold foliage. This grass is deer resistant, wind tolerant, and visually striking from late summer well into winter, making it a strong seasonal performer with structural poise.

Companion Plants: Pair 'Rosea' with Echinacea 'Magnus' for bold, magenta daisies, Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm' for rich golden contrast, and the airy lavender wands of Verbena bonariensis to echo the grass’s height and lightness. Together, they create a vibrant, pollinator-rich planting with graceful rhythm and late-season clarity.

Care Instructions: Grow in full sun with well-drained soil. Water during the first season to establish deep roots; once established, it is highly drought tolerant. Cut back in early spring before new growth emerges. Handle with care—leaf edges can be sharp. Best suited to large gardens or open settings where its full size can be appreciated.

History: 'Rosea' is a cultivated form of Cortaderia selloana, native to South America and long valued in ornamental landscapes for its dramatic plumes and structural presence. The soft pink flowering form adds a refined, romantic twist to the classic white pampas silhouette.

Final Thoughts: With its blushing plumes and commanding stature, Cortaderia 'Rosea' brings a sense of grandeur and softness to the late garden. It’s a grass that catches light and attention—bold yet graceful, and always in motion.