She’ll be happiest somewhere bright but she’ll also be fine in light shade.
She’s not too fussy about moisture and copes with a bit of drought, but she prefers her soil moist. Water much less often during the winter when she becomes dormant.
In early spring, snip any old, dried growth back to the soil. It will keep her look fresh every year.
Botanical name
Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’
Nickname
Japanese blood grass; Cogon grass
Plant type
Grass outdoor
Plant height (including pot)
30-40cm
Pet/baby safe
Yes
Nursery pot size
17cm
The name may be gruesome but it’s fitting for the colour of this striking plant. The deep scarlet, long leaves of this tall grass will add a big hit of colour to any outdoor arrangement, or look very impressive on their own. The leaves are lime green when they emerge, transforming to red through late summer and autumn. Works just as well in pots or planted in borders.
The less dramatic name for Japanese blood grass is cogon grass, or imperata cylindrica. It’s grown across Africa, Asia and Europe, and used as food, as thatch for houses, and in traditional Chinese medicine. Mostly, it’s grown for its attractive foliage and undemanding habit. It will grow in either sun or light shade and is drought tolerant once established, so it’s good for forgetful waterers.
There’s no other real care required for this plant but it’s a good idea to cut out any dead or weak growth in early spring, just to keep it looking neat.
Did you know?
This plant has many different names, including spear grass, cotton wool grass, sword grass and satintail.
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