Pennisetum

Pennisetum - P. longistylum is one of the most elegant of grasses, 1 to 1 1/2 feet high; the flower-spikes, borne on slender stems, are from 4 to 6 inches long, of singular twisted form, and enveloped in a purplish feathery down. It is useful for cutting, as it lasts a long time, is perennial and hardy, growing in free garden soil. Easily raised from seed, or root division in early spring. P. fimbriatum is a similar species, equally desirable. P. japonicum is a taller kind with long narrow leaves and a dense rounded spike. P. macrourum, like a miniature Pampas Grass, is a tall perennial from the mountains of S. Africa, with spikes of flower a foot long. P. latifolium from S. America is a noble plant in the summer garden, but will not stand our winters in the open.