In the U.S., many homeowners turn to pampas grass when they need a privacy screen—and they need it *fast*. If you’ve just moved into a new place and feel a little too exposed to the neighbors, this plant is a total lifesaver. By the time summer rolls around, it’s usually tall enough to create a beautiful, natural barrier that keeps prying eyes out.
It’s All About the Variety
Just like with most things in the garden, not all pampas grass is created equal. There are tons of different varieties out there, and they don’t just vary in the color of their plumes and foliage—they also vary wildly in height. Before you buy, you really need to think about your space. Are you looking for a massive hedge, or do you just want something pretty for a container on your balcony?
-Common Varieties and Heights
Here are some of the most popular varieties you’ll run into at your local nursery or big-box garden center. While you *can* grow pampas grass from seed, it’s a lot of work and takes some serious patience. Most folks find it much easier to grab a “ready-to-go” plant. Here’s a quick look at how tall these favorites can get:
- Pumila (up to 5 feet)
- Sunningdale Silver (up to 10 feet)
- Rosea (up to 8 feet)
- Patagonia (up to 5 feet)
- Citaro (up to 8 feet)
- Silver Comet (up to 8 feet)
Don’t Forget the Plant Food!
Keep in mind that those heights are for fully mature plants. If you want your grass to reach its full potential, you’ve got to make sure the soil is packed with nutrients. If your goal is to grow a privacy hedge as quickly as possible, you’ll need to fertilize your pampas grass on a regular basis. I recommend using some well-aged compost or a liquid fertilizer specifically designed for ornamental grasses to get the best results.
