Pennisetum cereale
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will succeed outdoors in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a light well-drained soil in a sunny position. Succeeds in dry soils.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Germination usually takes place within 3 weeks. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in spring. Larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer.
Edible uses
Seed - raw or cooked. A mild nutty flavour, it is normally ground into a flour and used as a cereal.
Habitat
Not known
Native range
E. Asia - China.