Overview
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' is a tufted grass like in the genus Imperata, part of the Poaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and city and courtyard gardens.
About
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' is a deciduous grass that develops an open clump of upright, narrow green foliage, prominently tinged with rich red hues. In late summer, it produces slender, silvery flower panicles that add vertical interest to the landscape.
About the genus
Imperata consists of perennial grasses that are deciduous and grow from rhizomes. They feature flat, linear leaves that may exhibit vibrant colors. In late summer, they can produce slender, silvery flowering panicles.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Imperata
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass Like
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'
- Cultivation
- Easy to grow in most moist, humus-rich, well-drained fertile soils. May need winter protection in colder areas
- Pruning
- Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in mid-spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'?
Easy to grow in most moist, humus-rich, well-drained fertile soils. May need winter protection in colder areas.
Where is the best place to plant Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'?
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' need?
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
How do I prune Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'?
Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring.
How big does Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' grow?
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' hardy in the UK?
Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra' has a UK hardiness rating of H4.
How do I propagate Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'?
Propagate by division in mid-spring.