Imperata cylindrica

Japanese Blood Grass

Imperata cylindrica is a rhizomatous ornamental grass valued for its upright narrow blades that often develop striking red coloration toward the upper portions of the foliage, especially in selected ornamental forms such as Japanese blood grass. The foliage emerges green and gradually intensifies to red from summer into fall, creating strong vertical color and texture.

Type: Ornamental grass
Mature Size: Width: 1–2 ft · Height: 1–2 ft
USDA Zones: 5a–9b

Form: Upright, clumping to spreading

Light: Full sun to part shade

Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Water: Medium; prefers even moisture

Wildlife: Provides cover for small beneficial insects

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for borders, mass plantings, and mixed perennial beds where upright red-tinted foliage provides seasonal contrast. Selected ornamental forms are especially effective in smaller accent plantings.

Care:
Plant in well-drained soil with regular moisture for best color. Cut back old foliage in late winter before new growth begins. Monitor spread carefully, as some forms can spread aggressively depending on type and region.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass

Height

1-2'

Width

1-2'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Late Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green, Sienna

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Erosion Control, Mass Planting

Shape

Clumping, Upright

Fruit

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No