The female plants produce plumes that are broad and full due to silky hairs covering the tiny flowers which make up the plume. The male plumes appear narrow and thin because of the absence of hair on the flowers. However, the difference in appearance is not so obvious that many people observe any difference between male and female plants. There is also considerable variation among plants in growth habit, period of flowering, and size and shape of plumes. Therefore, if uniformity and large plumes are desired, purchase plants when they are blooming in late August or early September.
Pampas grass can be a very attractive and functional plant when used correctly in the landscape.
It can be used as a specimen plant in isolated locations on large lawns. It is probably best used as a screening plant for sunny locations. Unfortunately, pampas grass is often used as a foundation plant. It is usually purchased from a nursery as a small plant and planted very near the home. The plant will look great the first year, but after several years it usually grows so large that it will be difficult to find the house for the pampas grass.