PLANT FIELD GUIDE PROFILE
Pampasgrass
Cortaderia selloana
A large perennial grass established in coastal and other California habitats.
Compare reference photographs
in the linked sources below.
What to look for
- Large, persistent grass clump
- Tall flowering plumes
- Compare with jubatagrass before confirming species
Look-alikes & identification limits
Jubatagrass (Cortaderia jubata) and ornamental grasses. Use the linked comparison resources.
Growth & persistence
Wind disperses abundant seeds; established clumps persist for multiple years.
Management considerations
Assess clump size, access, seed dispersal, and habitat before removal. Large established plants need a site-specific plan.
Ecology & landscape context
Cal-IPC rates this species High. Disturbance and exposed ground can favor establishment.
Use multiple identifying features and a reliable reference. This guide does not establish that a plant is edible or safe to touch, nor does it certify a property’s fire compliance. Request a site assessment before disturbing unknown or hazardous plants.