Robust green foliage is enhanced by tall erect pinky-beige spikelets in late summer to autumn, gracefully moving in the slightest of breezes.

Height: 180cm (6ft).

Sowing time: December to April or June to July.

Sow seed on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost and place at a temperature of at 20C (69F). Lightly cover the seed with vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 14-21 days. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination.

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into trays or 7.5cm (3in) pots.

Gradually acclimatise plants to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 60cm (24in) apart.