These two grasses are often confused, but they behave very differently on the land. Getting it right matters not just for today, but for the future of your property.
The quickest way to tell
Pampas forms dense clumps with a thick skirt of dead leaves around the base. The leaves are extremely sharp and brittle, and the plant spreads aggressively.
Toetoe has a clean, open base with tougher, less brittle leaves. It naturally grows in wet areas and along waterways, and has a much lighter, more natural presence in the landscape.
If it’s hard to reach the base and feels viciously sharp, it’s likely pampas.
Why pampas is a problem
Pampas doesn’t stay put. It produces large amounts of seed, spreads quickly, and outcompetes native plants. Left unmanaged, it will continue to spread across your property and into surrounding areas.
Why we choose toetoe
Toetoe is a beautiful native plant and one we grow here at our nursery. It helps stabilise soil, thrives in wetlands, and supports healthy native ecosystems. If you’re planting damp ground, riparian margins or wetlands, toetoe is the right choice.
If you’re not sure what you’ve got, or you’re looking to plant toetoe as part of a wider project, we’re happy to help. Getting it right early makes a big difference.
