If you’re looking for a way to get some quick privacy in your yard, pampas grass is a total game-changer. It’s a huge favorite for new homeowners because it grows so fast—by the time summer rolls around, it’s usually tall enough to keep the neighbors’ prying eyes away from your patio.
It’s All About the Variety
Just like most things in the gardening world, not all pampas grass is created equal. There are tons of different varieties out there, and they don’t just differ in the colors of their plumes and blades. The height can vary wildly, too! Before you buy, you really need to think about your space: are you looking for a massive living fence, or something compact for a pot on your balcony?
-Popular Varieties and How Tall They Get
Here are some of the most popular varieties you’ll run into at your local nursery or garden center. While you *can* grow pampas grass from seeds, it’s a lot of work and takes some serious patience. Most folks find it way easier to just grab a starter plant. Here’s a quick cheat sheet for their typical heights:
- Pumila: Reaches about 5 feet (perfect for smaller spaces)
- Sunningdale Silver: A giant that can hit 10 feet
- Rosea: Gorgeous pink tints, reaches about 8 feet
- Patagonia: Stays around 5 feet
- Citaro: Grows to about 8 feet
- Silver Comet: Another solid 8-footer
Don’t Forget the Plant Food!
Keep in mind that those heights are for fully mature, happy plants. If you want your grass to reach its full potential (and do it quickly!), you’ve got to make sure the soil is rich in nutrients. If your goal is a fast-growing privacy screen, you’ll need to fertilize your pampas grass regularly. I recommend using either some well-aged compost or a liquid fertilizer specifically designed for ornamental grasses.
