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Description
Imperata Cylindrica Rubra, commonly known as Japanese Blood Grass or Red Baron, is a perennial grass native to East and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Poaceae family and is well-known for its striking red leaves that turn more intense as the season progresses.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Imperata |
Appearance
The leaves of Imperata Cylindrica Rubra are narrow and pointed, growing up to 50 cm in length and 1 cm in width. The plant typically reaches a height of 30 to 90 cm and spreads through rhizomes. The leaves start out green, but turn red from the tips downwards as the season progresses. The red coloration intensifies in full sun and cooler temperatures, and is especially vibrant in autumn. In the summer, the plant produces light brown or purple flowers on long stems that rise above the foliage.
Care Guide
Imperata Cylindrica Rubra is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. This grass prefers well-draining soil, so make sure the pot or planting area has adequate drainage holes.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of potting soil and sand or perlite. If planting in the ground, make sure the soil is rich in organic matter and has good drainage.
- Sunlight: Imperata Cylindrica Rubra prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch.
- Hardiness Zones: This grass is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Imperata Cylindrica Rubra is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be affected by the following:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, which causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this disease.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the leaves and can cause yellowing and a stippled appearance. Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the population.
Habitat
Imperata Cylindrica Rubra is native to East and Southeast Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and disturbed areas. It has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant, and is considered invasive in some areas such as the southeastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Imperata Cylindrica Rubra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this grass can be grown in containers as long as the pot has adequate drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: When should I prune Imperata Cylindrica Rubra?
A: This grass does not require pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged leaves in the spring to encourage new growth.
Q: Is Imperata Cylindrica Rubra deer-resistant?
A: While this grass is not considered deer-resistant, it is not a preferred food source for deer and may be less likely to be eaten than other plants.
Q: Can Imperata Cylindrica Rubra be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, this grass can be used as a ground cover in sunny areas with well-draining soil. It spreads quickly through rhizomes and can form a dense mat.
Related Plants
- Imperata Cylindrica
- Imperata Cylindrica ‘Rubra’
- Imperata Cylindrica ‘Red Baron’
References
- “Imperata Cylindrica – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279290&isprofile=0&basic=imperata%20cylindrica. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
- “Imperata Cylindrica Rubra – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279307&isprofile=0&basic=imperata%20cylindrica%20rubra. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
- “Imperata Cylindrica ‘Red Baron’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/327238/Imperata-cylindrica-Red-Baron/Details. Accessed 20 Aug. 2021.
