Pennisetum alopecuroides grows well in every garden providing the soil is rich, reasonably moist and well- drained. The roots of the grass do not like excessive water although the grass looks great near water bodies. The plant requires a lot of sun, which guarantees abundant flowering. It also grows perfectly well in big containers placed in sheltered places. Being rather frost -hardy, Pennisetum may need some extra protection in severe winters. Do not worry in the spring when you cannot see any new growth, the young leaves wake up rather late.
Chinese fountain grass is a great choice for flower beds to accompany annuals, perennials, shrubs and trees. The fluffy spikes catch both raindrops and sun rays and fill the garden with light reflections only grasses can do.
The ornamental inflorescences are also good for dry decorations. The best time for collecting the hairy flower spikes is when they have just fully developed. When the seeds get mature, it is too late as the inflorescences tend to fall into pieces then. In this case you need to be watchful.
Apart form perennial Pennisetums, I recommend Pennisetum villosum, which is an annual species and-no wonder- fully ornamental.