Some grasses and grass-like plants, including many Carex, keep their foliage through much of the year and are useful where year-round structure is important. Others, such as many Miscanthus, die back before producing fresh growth in spring.

Many Carex varieties are well suited to partial shade and can be particularly useful beneath shrubs, along paths or in more sheltered borders. Always check the individual variety, as growing requirements differ.

For sunny positions, look at grasses such as Miscanthus, Pennisetum, Stipa and Festuca. They combine particularly well with Salvias, Agapanthus, Verbena and other sun-loving perennials.

Yes. Compact grasses are particularly effective in containers and can provide foliage, texture and movement for long periods. Choose a container with good drainage and match the grass to the amount of sun the position receives.

Deciduous ornamental grasses are generally left standing through winter before old growth is cut back ahead of fresh spring growth. Evergreen grasses usually need much less pruning and can often simply be tidied by removing damaged or dead foliage.

Try combining ornamental grasses with Agapanthus, Salvias, hardy Geraniums, Hydrangeas and other flowering perennials to create layered planting with contrasting flower shapes and foliage.