Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'
grass

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass

Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'

$31.10

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.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesImperata cylindrica Red Baron adds vibrant red color to gardens, creating striking visual interest especially in late summer and fall.
Practical UsesIt is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it ideal for xeriscaping and sustainable gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and cover for beneficial insects and small wildlife.
SpeciesImperata cylindricaJapanese Blood Grass

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

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills
In Stock$31.10

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil for planting.
  2. Tuck rhizomes or seedlings into the soil, spacing them about 12 inches apart.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
  4. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, rust-colored grass borderDrought-tolerant ornamental grassPrivacy screen with vibrant foliage

Companion Plants

SedumLavender Ornamental grasses YuccaAgave

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass questions

What zones can Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass grow in?

Red Baron 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 Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass deer resistant?

Yes — Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass bloom?

Red Baron 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 Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass need full sun?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

More Imperata to compare

Japanese Blood Grass

Japanese Blood Grass

Imperata cylindrica

Zones 5–9· 76 saves

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Grow Red Baron 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.

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