Imperata genus of 6 species of perennials, found throughout from East and South Asia to Australia. They are belong to family of Poaceae. They live at areas from tempate to tropical climate.

Imperata cylindrica ”rubra” is a species of grass in the genus Imperata. It is also called Bloody Grass, because of the bright red color of the leaves.

Japanese Bloodgrass may reach to 50 cm high and 30 cm in diameter. Need full sun to partial shade. It can withstand to -20˚C degree, they prefer soils rich of organic material. In cold areas, grass should be cut from soil level, and covered with some mulching material at winter time.

The flowers of Imperata cylindrica “rubra” are not showy. They are silver coloured and seen on long spikes at summer time. Propagation can be done by dividing rhizomes at spring. Japanese Bloodgrass normally seen red in upper 2/3 of the leaves and green at the lower 1/3. Red-green colour gives the plant an interesting and attractive view.

In landscaping Imperata cylindrica ”rubra” is useful in a mixed grass border. If used with green, silver or blue coloured plants a nice contrary effect obtained. In landscaping they are often planted with Carex morrowii variegata, Festuca ovina glauca, Stipa tenuissima, Setaria palmefolia, Scirpus cernuus in beds. Also can be used as a second plant row, in front of long grasses like Phormium, Penisetum, Miscanthus, Cortaderia, Cymbopogon. Japanese Bloodgrass should be planted in groups for a sharper visual effect. If it is used in containers, large circular or rectangle shaped pots are preferred. Within pots can be used in separation or to direct the public in trade centers, pastry shops or restaurants.