The literature review provides information about one of the most promising energy crops – miscanthus (Miscanthus). Data on the systematics, morphology and phonology of the plant, its yield and the quality of the resulting cellulose-containing raw materials are presented. The possibility of effective cultivation of perennial miscanthus plantations in continental regions, including Russia, is shown. The results of studies of the environmental and phytomeliorative effects of miscanthus plantings on the agricultural landscape are considered. The work on studying the possibilities of obtaining industrial products with high added value from miscanthus biomass is analyzed.