Fall Arrangement: Pampas Grass

Time to make my annual fall arrangement, using the invasive pampas grass that grows nearby our property on city land. It's a tough plant that is native to southern South Africa, and seeded itself in a crack in the pavement. Its location impedes the view of anyone trying to make a left turn onto a busy street, and taming it requires thick leather gloves, a sharp pair of Felcos, and strong hands.

Fall arrangement with invasive pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana)

Despite all that, the long graceful plumes of flower clusters provide a dramatic element to a fall arrangement, and catch the golden fall light.

The plume-like flowers catch the fall light

 

The seeds are dispersed by the wind, so careful disposal of the arrangement and pruned stalks is imperative. I should find a way to eradicate the plant (I'm guessing it would take quite a few seasons to do so). In the meantime, I enjoy the periodic fall arrangement (carefully).