Pampas Grass

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22391, 11 April 1936, Page 10 (Supplement)

Pampas Grass

The saving silvery plumes of the pampas grass, Cortaderia argentea, are one of the features of the landscape at this season of the year, and seen in the rays of the setting sun, the massive Clumps provide a picturesque spot in what might otherwise bo drab surroundings. But how seldom are the wayside clumps allowed to retain their beauty for any length of time. As soon as the flower spikes commence to develop, thej l are broken down and the roads strewn with the poor remains of the gorgeous plumes. There are many who prize the plumes for winter decoration for which . they are admirably fitted, but what of those who merely break down the plumes for a passing whim, to be thrown away a few minutes later. The plumes of the variety C. Rendatleri are flushed with a pale rosy tint which renders them still more attractive, and a clump makes a bold specimen for a lawn where the necessary space can be allowed. To keep the clumps within bounds, it is an advantage to clip them over closely with the hedge shears, as soon as the flowering period is past. The new growth the following season will arch over, fresh and grssn, without taking up too much room. There is also a dwarf variety named pumila, which, though much smaller, is nevertheless equally as attractive.