About
A deciduous grass to 50cm tall, forming a loose clump of erect, linear green leaves. In summer narrow spikes of silvery flowers are produced. Good at the front of a border or in containers.
About the genus
Imperata are deciduous, rhizomatous perennial grasses, with flat linear leaves which sometimes are brightly coloured and, occasionally, narrow silvery flowering panicles in late summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeGrass Like
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toJapan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. If growing in containers use a 50/50 mix of peat-free, loam-based potting compost to peat substitute. In cold climates provide a winter mulch
PruningNo pruning required. Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free