Rufus

Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'

Japanese blood grass; Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’

• 
  Easy care
• 
  Bright light

• Rufus likes...
  • 
    A sunny spot

    She’ll be happiest somewhere bright but she’ll also be fine in light shade.

  • 
    Moist soil

    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.

  • 
    Haircuts

    In early spring, snip any old, dried growth back to the soil. It will keep her look fresh every year.

• Quick facts

  Botanical name

  Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’

  Nickname

  Japanese blood grass; Cogon grass

  Plant type

  Grass outdoor

  Plant height (including pot)

  20-30cm

  Pet/baby safe

  Yes

  Nursery pot size

  17cm

• About Japanese blood grass

  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.

  It's worth noting that Rufus is deciduous and will die back or go into winter dormancy before putting out new green shoots in spring. It's a good idea to leave the dead foliage on over winter to protect the plant and provide a habitat for wildlife. You can then 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.