Cannomois virgata is a resprouter and rarely produces seed, so propagation by germination is untested at Kirstenbosch.

The recommended method of propagation is through vegetative propagation which is done during winter. Dig up mature plants and divide the rhizomes into large chunks. Remove the 'leafy' culm growth. Plant into a well-drained soil and keep moist. Treatment with a seaweed extract once a month will encourage new root and shoot growth in spring once the weather warms up.

Plant Cannomois virgata in a sunny position in well-drained soil and water regularly. Plants require a large area to grow in or an area that is able to confine roots like a planter box, as the rhizomes tend to spread out over a large area over time. Tidy up plants by removing straggly and dead culms as they appear. If plants are looking old and tired stimulate new growth by cutting the culms down to the ground in late autumn. This emulates what a fire would do in nature.

Use liberal amounts of compost to improve the soil. You can also apply an organic fertiliser low in phosphates twice a year for lush green growth, although this is not essential. Cannomois virgata is generally free from pests and diseases.

Cannomois virgata is suited to an informal garden style where the branching willowy culms will create texture and movement in the garden. Combine it with sturdy plants that will be able to grow above and through the spreading rhizomes. A few examples of planting companions are Aristea capitata, Watsonia borbonica, Berzelia abrotanoides, Leucadendron argenteum, Podalyria calyptrata and Polygala virgata.