Japanese Blood Grass
Imperata cylindrica
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
18 inches
Width
12 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 'Rubra', known as Japanese Blood Grass, is a striking ornamental grass grown for its upright, blade-like leaves that are green at the base and transition to a vibrant blood-red at the tips. The intense red coloration of the foliage is its main feature, becoming more pronounced in late summer and fall. It is a slow-spreading, non-flowering or sparsely flowering form, unlike the highly invasive green species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil to plant Imperata cylindrica.
- Tuck young plants into the soil at the same depth as in their containers, spacing 12-18 inches apart.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root development, especially in the first few weeks.
- Water consistently during the first growing season to establish strong roots.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth.
- Prune back dead or damaged leaves in late fall to promote healthy new growth.
Pro Tip
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, especially during hot summer months.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal foliage color and growth
- Prune to control size and remove dead leaves
- Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can lead to leggy growth
- Avoid partial shade to prevent poor growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
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.
