Overview
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' is a clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial grass grass in the genus Imperata, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous, linear leaves, green to red foliage. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include ornamental grass, borders and containers.
About
Imperata cylindrica is a species of perennial rhizomatous grass native to tropical and subtropical Asia, Micronesia, Melanesia, Australia, Africa, and Southern Europe. It has also been introduced to Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Southeastern United States.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Imperata cylindrica
About the genus
Imperata is a small but widespread genus of tropical and subtropical grasses, commonly known as satintails.
Wikipedia contributors, "Imperata", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Imperata
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Imperata
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Habit
- Clump-forming, Rhizomatous perennial grass
- Foliage
- Deciduous, Linear leaves, Green to red
- Height
- 1.2 m
- Suggested uses
- ornamental grass, borders, containers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established
- Pruning
- Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring
- Propagation
- Division of rhizomes in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'?
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'?
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' need?
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'?
Cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.
How big does Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' grow?
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' reaches a height of 1.2 m.
Is Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' hardy in the UK?
Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'?
Division of rhizomes in spring.
