Yes, ornamental grasses like Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass naturally develop striking red coloration. The tips start red in spring, then the color intensifies and spreads down each blade through summer until the entire plant turns burgundy-red by fall. Shop this dramatic perennial grass at naturehills.com.

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and requires minimal maintenance. This hardy perennial is very easy to grow once established. Simply cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass

Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'

Nature Hills Nursery

Vibrant Crimson-Tipped Blades Transform Your Japanese Blood Grass Garden into Living Artwork
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Drought Tolerant, Pollution Tolerant
Pollinator-Friendly Perennial
Stunning Red Fall Foliage

$31¹⁰

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Plant Size

#1 Container

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Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This grass thrives in full sun for at least 6 hours daily to maintain its signature crimson color. While it tolerates partial shade, too much shade will cause the blades to revert to a plain green hue.
Soil: It prefers rich, moist, and well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost to improve drainage, or use a raised bed to prevent the roots from sitting in soggy "wet feet" during winter.

Watering Requirements

Keep the soil consistently moist for the first growing season to help the root system anchor itself deep into the ground. Once established, Red Baron is moderately drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering will cause the tips of the blades to turn brown and crispy. Aim for deep soakings at the base of the plant twice a week during the heat of summer to keep the foliage looking vibrant.

Pruning Tips

Because this grass is deciduous and goes dormant, you should cut the entire plant back to about 2 or 3 inches above the ground in late winter or very early spring before new growth emerges. Think of this like a seasonal reset that clears away the old, dead foliage to make room for fresh spears. This timing ensures you don't accidentally clip off the new growth points that provide the plant's energy for the upcoming year.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring as the first green shoots appear. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer or fall because this encourages soft, tender growth that can be easily damaged by the first frost. A single spring feeding provides all the fuel the plant needs to reach its full height and color intensity by autumn.

Delivery and Shipping

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Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

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Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Deer-resistant, Attracts pollinators, Drought resistant, Flowering, Non-invasive, Fragrant
Hardiness Zone	5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	1-2 ft
Width	1-2 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Compact, Spreading, Upright
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Summer
Flower Color	White
Suitable Space	Outdoors, Indoors
Plant Name	Grass
Botanical Name	Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron'
Species	cylindrica
Cultivar	Red Baron
Class	Poales
Does Not Ship To	AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, PR, NV, OR, WA

Dramatic Good Looks Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass

Eye-Catching Warm-Season Accent Grass
Outstanding, Crimson-Tipped Blades
Magnificent Autumn Color
Elegant Look for Outdoor Containers
Clump-Forming, Won't Spread by Rhizome
Mass Plantings on Slopes Prevent Soil Erosion
Versatile, Adaptable and Easy-Care
Deer Tend to Leave This Plant Alone

Looking to push your landscape design to the next level? Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass (Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron') is more than up to the challenge.

This gorgeous, compact perennial grass offers outstanding ornamental appeal. Just look at the bold foliage!

Starting in early spring, the unique, blood-red color darkens the tips of the green leaves, then grows down each blade. The color intensifies as the season progresses.

Get ready for questions as the grass looks like it's been dip-dyed in bright red in summer. By fall, you'll enjoy a fully burgundy-red accent grass.

This plant commands attention all growing season. Leave the blades up over winter for extra visual interest.

Plant them where you want to draw the eye. Place a pair flanking on either side of your front door. Use near a special boulder or sculpture. Add to a large outdoor container or use along the length of your patio planting bed. Instant style!

It might look dramatic, but it's actually very easy to grow. Just give it sun and well-drained soil and watch it perform its annual show for you year after year.

The most important thing you'll need to do is hurry to place your order. As you can imagine, many people across the country are looking for these. Order Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass today!

How to Use Red Baron Japanese Bloodgrass in the Landscape

Tuck these compact Ornamental Grasses in just about anywhere you want. It pops as a specimen and looks gorgeous as a long row, drift or mass planting.

Use them in containers or grow them in the ground. These clump-forming grasses won't spread beyond the width listed in the Plant Highlights.

For a solid row, plant them 18 inches apart on center. You'll measure from the center of one to the center of the next.

To fill the bare ground, or edge taller shrubs, create a mass planting. Use a zigzagging planting pattern, and mulch between plants until they grow together. The root systems will hold soil when used on slopes.

Add to perennial borders, and consider them for the edge of Rain Gardens, as well. They like moist soil that doesn't stay wet for long.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Give the Red Baron full sun, especially the early morning sun which dries the leaves. It is somewhat adaptable to different soil types, as long as they are well-drained.

Provide a moderate amount of water on a regular basis. Red Baron prefers moist soil that doesn't stay wet. It will even thrive in poor soils.

Typically this warm-season ornamental grass does not flower, but if it does, remove the flowering stems to prevent seed production. Remove any all green shoots if noticed. Prune all foliage down to the ground each year in late winter or early spring before it starts to grow. It will sprout and grow quickly from the crown.

Don't miss our limited supply of one of the best Japanese Bloodgrass varieties available. The red-leaved foliage color is not to be missed! Order yours today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does japanese blood grass spread?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is clump-forming and won't spread by rhizome beyond its mature width. Unlike many grasses that can become invasive, this variety stays put where you plant it. You can confidently use it in borders or containers without worry about unwanted spreading.

Can grass be red?

Yes, ornamental grasses like Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass naturally develop striking red coloration. The tips start red in spring, then the color intensifies and spreads down each blade through summer until the entire plant turns burgundy-red by fall. Shop this dramatic perennial grass at naturehills.com.

How to care?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and requires minimal maintenance. This hardy perennial is very easy to grow once established. Simply cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

What USDA hardiness zones is Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass suitable for?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. This warm-season perennial handles both cold winters and hot summers well across most of the continental US. Plant in spring after frost danger passes for best establishment.

Is it legal to buy and plant Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass in my state?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is legal in most states, but some restrict Imperata cylindrica varieties due to invasive concerns. This clump-forming cultivar won't spread by rhizome like wild types. Check your local extension office before ordering from naturehills.com.

What are the sun and soil requirements for Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. This easy-care perennial is quite adaptable and low-maintenance once established. Simply avoid soggy conditions and provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for the best red coloration.

How often do I need to water Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is drought-tolerant once established and prefers well-drained soil over frequent watering. Water deeply during the first growing season to establish roots, then only during extended dry periods. Check soil moisture before watering and avoid overwatering which can cause root rot.

What is the best way to care for and prune Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is extremely low-maintenance, requiring only sun and well-drained soil. Leave the colorful blades standing through winter for continued visual interest. Simply cut back the old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges to keep plants looking their best.

Will Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass grow well in containers or pots?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass thrives in containers and makes an elegant accent for patios and outdoor spaces. This clump-forming grass won't spread beyond its designated width, making it ideal for pot culture. Provide full sun and well-draining soil for best color development.

Is Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass deer-resistant or pest-free?

Red Baron Japanese Blood Grass is deer-resistant, as deer tend to avoid this ornamental grass. The plant's texture and characteristics naturally deter browsing wildlife. Plant it in sunny, well-drained locations for best pest resistance and overall performance.