A grower in England is growing 80ha of Miscanthus as a long term agricultural crop for harvesting as a fuel, either for electricity generating power stations or for the paper industry. It is also a good alternative to reeds for thatched roofing and when mixed with wood-chips it is an ideal insulating material. Plants of the species in question grow 4m tall and the fallen leaves create a good layer humus making fertiliser applications unnecessary. Plants also set seed and in this way a plantation can naturally regenerate itself. Plants take about 12 months to fully develop and can last for up to 20 years. Defra: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs www.defra.gov.uk