Imperata Red Baron 2ltr

Imperata ‘Red Baron’—often called Japanese Blood Grass—is one of those plants that instantly adds “wow” to a border. Forming neat, upright clumps of slender green blades that flush and deepen to fiery crimson from the tips down, it brings glowing colour and movement from mid-summer right through to autumn. The red intensifies in full sun, creating a striking contrast against softer planting and making it a brilliant choice for modern schemes, gravel gardens and prairie-style borders.

As well as looking fantastic, Imperata is wonderfully useful: it’s compact enough for pots, reliable year after year, and its strong vertical shape helps break up planting and add structure. It also looks superb alongside silver foliage, purple flowers and other grasses—think Salvias, Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum and late-season perennials.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position for the best red colouring, with well-drained soil. Imperata enjoys moisture while establishing but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Ideal for mixed borders, gravel gardens, prairie-style planting, or containers.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the top of the compost is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart to allow clumps to fill out.
• Soil Prep: Mix in a little compost to help retain moisture while the plant establishes, but ensure good drainage.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep the soil evenly moist for the first season. Once established, Imperata is fairly low maintenance, but will appreciate occasional watering during prolonged dry spells, especially in containers.

Aftercare Tips:

• Leave foliage standing over winter for protection and interest, then cut back in early spring before new growth starts.
• Mulch lightly in spring to conserve moisture (avoid burying the crown).
• Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring if needed to maintain vigour.

Top Tip:
For the deepest colour, grow Imperata ‘Red Baron’ in full sun and avoid over-feeding. It looks stunning paired with purple Salvias, golden Rudbeckia, sedums and other ornamental grasses for a late-season show.

Plant Details

Foliage Interest:

May - October (red colour intensifies through summer)

Height:
12–18" (30–45cm)

Spread:
12–18" (30–45cm)

Position:
Full sun (best colour)

Hardy Perennial Grass:
Hardy once established (provide winter protection in very cold, exposed spots)