Plant Of The Week

Japanese Blood Grass

Also known as Imperator Cylindrical, Japanese blood grass is an ornamental grass variety and is mostly used for landscaping gardens. With its bright-red colour spiked blades, the grass looks stunning when
planted along with other bright coloured flowers. During the winter season, the colour changes to a more sober brown that lends your garden a unique forested look. Japanese blood grass requires a long, hot growing season. It reaches 12 to 18 inches high and clumps spread 12 to 36 inches wide.

Growing tips:


~ Use a quick-release water soluble fertilizer every couple of weeks during the growing season
~ Use a slow release fertilizer once each growing season. Work the slow release fertilizer into the soil around the plant.
~ Improve soil by mixing with organic materials such as fish emulsion, bone meal and/or manure.
~ Purchase an organic complete fertilizer like Plant-tone on April 1st, May 15th, July 4th, August 15th and October 1st.


Imperata cylindrica spreads quickly by the wind spreading small seeds and by rhizomes. It has become naturalized in many areas of North America, Europe, Northern Asia and Africa. In some areas it is considered an invasive weed because of its quick growth, which can take over growing areas quickly. Some state government in the southeast U.S. have taken moves to eradicate it, even prohibiting it from being propagated. You can stop the growth of Imperata cylindrica by using herbicides. Burning off is not suggested as the grass burns extremely hot and can damage surrounding plants and/or people.


The cultivar, Japanese Blood Grass, is not nearly as invasive, but its quick growth can still be controlled by removing blades that turn completely green. Also, after the blades flower and then turn tan or brown, cut down to the ground. Japanese blood grass can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes in the spring.
To help Japanese blood grass survive cold winters, the grass will overwinter better if the soil is well-drained, with no standing water that can rot the roots in winter. Grow Japanese blood grass for its unique, distinct beauty and low-maintenance requirements!

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