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Imperata cylindrica and cvs. (Japanese blood grass)

Imperata cylindrica and cvs. Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais


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Botanical Name: Imperata cylindrica and cvs. im-per-AY-tah sill-IND-rih-kah Common Name: Japanese blood grass Genus: Imperata
This small ornamental grass is grown for its smooth, red-flushed leaves. Blooms are tan.
Noteworthy characteristics: Spreads widely by wind-dispersed seeds. Extremely invasive.
Care: Grow in moist but well-drained soil.
Propagation: By division in the spring.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower
Moisture Medium Moisture
Characteristics Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Fall
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Uses Beds and Borders, Container
Style Rock Garden
Type Grasses

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