pampas grass

noun

1. a tall, ornamental grass, Cortaderia selloana, native to South America, having large, thick, feathery, silvery-white panicles.

pampas grass

/ ˈpæmpəs; -pəz /

noun

1. any of various large grasses of the South American genus Cortaderia and related genera, widely cultivated for their large feathery silver-coloured flower branches

Word History and Origins

Origin of pampas grass¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

Horticultural invasives, such as butterfly bush, English ivy, pampas grass and many other garden favorites that have escaped cultivation, are of increasing concern.

From Seattle Times

He pointed to a cavernous undercut that likely destabilized the bluff and noted the clusters of pampas grass, a fluffy, straw-colored weed that wedges its roots into the rocky cracks and joints.

From Los Angeles Times

For her installation, she had conjured up large-scale, eye-popping works with dried lotus leaves, dyed pampas grass and anthuriums radiant with iridescent paint.

From New York Times

“People underestimate how expensive pampas grass is,” Wilson said.

From Washington Post

The couple’s wedding planner, B Astonished, helped dress up the site, creating a floral arch with poppy roses and pampas grass.

From Washington Times