Buy blood grass (syn. red baron) Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'

Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'

blood grass (syn. Red Baron)

Blood-red spikes that fade to bright green at the base and become transluscent with age make this grass a spectacular addition to the perennial border.

It takes a while to strut its stuff, but in late summer, it shines like a jewel before it dies back. Imperata cylindrica is particularly effective planted with other grasses, or shown off in a container.

How to care for Imperata cylindrica Rubra:

Blood grass thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of sunlight. Plant it in a sunny location to achieve the best colour, as the striking red tips of the grass are most vibrant when grown in full sun.

Regular watering is essential, especially when grown in containers, as this grass prefers moist but not waterlogged soil.

In colder regions of the UK, mulch the roots with straw or well-rotted compost in winter to protect them from frost. In February, cut the plant back to the ground to encourage fresh growth in spring.

While the grass is quite hardy, providing some shelter from strong winds can help maintain its structure, particularly during the colder months.

Flowering period:

Eventual height:

0.4m

Eventual spread:

0.3m

Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)

This grass dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.