Japanese Blood Grass
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
18 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' is a ornamental grass known for its striking red-tipped foliage, making it a popular choice for landscape design. The 'Red Baron' cultivar features vibrant red leaves that provide excellent color contrast in the garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
- Tuck rhizomes or seedlings into the soil, spacing them about 12 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to maintain health and control size.
Pro Tip
Use a thick mulch to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture during hot summers.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune back dead or damaged leaves in early spring
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer
Don't
- Don’t overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid planting in poorly-drained soils
- Don’t neglect dividing to prevent overcrowding
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Blood Grass questions
What zones can Japanese Blood Grass grow in?
Japanese Blood Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Blood Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Blood Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Blood Grass bloom?
Japanese Blood Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Blood Grass need full sun?
Japanese Blood Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Japanese Blood Grass drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Japanese Blood Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Japanese Blood Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
