Ornamental grasses are currently enjoying incredible popularity as both seasoned and novice garden...Ornamental grasses are currently enjoying incredible popularity as both seasoned and novice gardeners alike discover the incredible and ever-increasing range of varieties available, and Imperata ‘Red Baron’, better known as Blood Grass, has to be one of the most striking! Originating in Korea, Japan, China and India, this exotic beauty is one of the smaller grasses, reaching a height of about 50 cm, it is nonetheless stunningly striking. A deciduous grass, in spring it’ll begin to produce robust, upright green blades which turn vivid cranberry red in summer before the colour deepens to luxurious burgundy tones in autumn. Blood Grass will slowly form large clumps and looks amazing when planted en masse, with its dazzling red blades providing contrasts of colour and texture with the surrounding garden plants. Between June and August, clusters of fluffy, silvery flowers appear, adding yet more visual interest. Try it dotted around a gravel or rock garden or in a pot so that you can get up close and admire it. Growing in full sun will give the best colouring, although it will be fine in partial shade. As a deciduous grass, it will die back in winter and should be cut back to ground level in February, but don’t worry, you’ll see brand new shoots in March, heralding the arrival of spring and a new season of amazing colour! Supplied as an established plant in a 17cm pot, ready to plant out, growing to a height of 50cm and spread of 30cm. This stunning plant features bright red leaves in Summer, deepening to rich burgundy in Autumn, and tall clusters of silver, fluffy flowers in Summer that move beautifully in the breeze. It is a hardy perennial, coming back bigger and better each year, and thrives in a sunny spot for the best colour.
This guide is for gardeners looking to understand and care for the You Garden Japanese Blood Grass - Red Baron. This striking ornamental grass offers vibrant red foliage in the summer, transitioning to burgundy in the autumn, adding a unique aesthetic to any garden. A key consideration is its need for full sun exposure to achieve the best color. This guide will help you understand the features, care, and real-world uses of this plant.
All features
Brand
You Garden
Extended Product Information
FAQs
How much sun does Japanese Blood Grass need?
It requires full sun for the best color and growth.
When should I cut back the grass?
Cut it back to ground level in February.
Is it a perennial?
Yes, it is a hardy perennial and will return each year.
How tall does it grow?
It grows to a height of approximately 50cm.
What kind of soil does it prefer?
It prefers well-draining soil.
Does it require a lot of watering?
Water regularly until established, then it becomes relatively drought-tolerant.
When does it flower?
It flowers with fluffy, silvery flowers between June and August.
Troubleshooting
Poor color development.
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight. Consider relocating if necessary.
Plant not growing vigorously.
Check soil drainage and ensure the plant is not waterlogged. Fertilize in spring.
Plant looks withered.
Water deeply and consider adding mulch to retain moisture.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Adds vibrant color and texture to gardens.
Hardy and returns each year.
Relatively low-maintenance once established.
Attractive flowers add visual interest.
Suitable for various garden styles (rock gardens, pots).
Cons
Requires full sun for optimal color.
Dies back in winter, may not provide year-round interest.
Color can vary based on sunlight exposure.
Needs to be cut back in February.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Planting: Plant in well-draining soil in a location that receives full sun. Space plants about 30cm apart to allow for spread.
Watering: Water regularly until established. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant.
Sunlight: Full sun exposure is crucial for the best color development.
Fertilizing: Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Winter Care: Cut back the grass to ground level in February.
Compatibility: Works well with other ornamental grasses and perennials. Suitable for rock gardens, borders, and container planting.