Poaceae
Japanese blood grass: Ground Cover Plant
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'
Place in full sun for the best color development and keep evenly moist in well-drained soil.
Every 4 days
Bright indirect
-15° - 35°C
40% - 70%
Categories
What is Japanese blood grass?
Japanese blood grass (Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron') is a easy-care plant from the Poaceae family. Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron', also known as Japanese blood grass, is a striking ornamental grass known for its upright blades that start green at the base and turn intensely blood-red toward the tips. The color intensifies throughout the summer and fall. It is a slow-growing grass that forms dens...
Japanese blood grass grows up to 50cm, spread of 40cm, watering every 4 days, -15°C – 35°C, 40–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Japanese blood grass tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Japanese blood grass is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Japanese blood grass?
TLDR: Japanese blood grass needs Bright indirect, watering every 4 days, and temperatures between -15-35°C with 40-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Japanese blood grass?
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, especially during hot summer periods, but avoid standing water.
How Much Light Does Japanese blood grass Need?
The more sunlight the plant receives, the redder the leaves will become. In shade, it will remain more green.
What Is the Best Soil for Japanese blood grass?
Thrives best in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
What Pot Should You Use for Japanese blood grass?
A wide pot with good drainage or directly in the garden soil.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Japanese blood grass and Where Does It Come From?
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron', also known as Japanese blood grass, is a striking ornamental grass known for its upright blades that start green at the base and turn intensely blood-red toward the tips. The color intensifies throughout the summer and fall. It is a slow-growing grass that forms dense clumps and adds a dramatic color effect to any garden.
How to Propagate Japanese blood grass?
Root division
- Ensure each section has at least 3-5 healthy shoots for rapid establishment.
- 1 Dig up the plant
Carefully dig up the entire clump in the spring when new growth begins.
- 2 Divide the clump
Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the rhizome into smaller pieces, each with healthy shoots.
- 3 Replant
Plant the sections immediately in moist soil and water thoroughly.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Japanese blood grass Grow?
TLDR: Japanese blood grass can reach up to 50cm tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
50cm
Spread
40cm
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents energy, passion, and protection due to its flaming red color.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
