This species is very attractive and may be used as a garden ornamental, lining the borders of larger beds with its pendulous flowers. It can be planted in groups or clusters. The colour of the foliage is an attractive green and it remains green until late in the growing season. Good texture and colour combinations can be created by using this grass effectively in the garden. Its leaf texture also makes it an attractive choice for a container. Setaria megaphylla attracts birds to the garden as finches; canaries and other seed eating birds eat the seed. The leaves are also used by weavers to build their nests.

The best propagation technique of this type of perennial grass is by division as it forms large rootstocks and creeping stolons. Sexual propagation by means of seed can also be done, although in most instances large quantities of seed will not be available. Seed should be collected once the inflorescence has dried out. The dry inflorescences must be removed, placed in paper bags and shaken to release and catch the seeds. The best time to sow the seed is from December to February (midsummer).