Cortaderia

Evergreen grasses from South America, often with rough-edged leaves, making tough clumps, often large. Strong stems, with feathery clusters of flowers. Good in a variety of conditions, but preferring sunny spots.

Overwintering tussocks of these grasses are important, sheltered hibernation sites for many beneficial insects such as ladybirds, and seeds in the showy seed-heads are eaten by finches.