Succeeds in most soils in a sunny position. Prefers a chalky soil. Grows best in a soil that is not too fertile. This is an aggregate species. K. cristata is now divided into K. macrantha (which is also the name of the aggregate) and K. pyramidata (Lam.)Beauv. K. macrantha is native to Britain, K. pyramidata, which is found wild in meadows and wood margins, is native to much of mainland Europe.

Seed - cooked. It is ground into a powder and eaten like porridge or used as a flour for making bread etc.

Seed - sow spring in situ and only just cover the seed. Germination should take place within three weeks. Division in spring.

Sandy places, chalk and limestone pastures.