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Imperata cylindrica
Imperata cylindrica
Imperata cylindrica
Imperata cylindrica

Imperata cylindrica

TAXONOMY

FamilyPoaceae
GenusImperata
Zone5

ABOUT

Imperata cylindrica, commonly known as cogon grass or Japanese blood grass, is a perennial grass native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its striking red-tipped foliage and is often used in ornamental gardening. The plant spreads via rhizomes and can become invasive if not managed properly. It prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a range of soil conditions.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Arundo Epigeios
Calamagrostis Lagurus
Cogon Grass
Lagurus Cylindricus
Imperata allang
Imperata angolensis
Imperata arundinacea
Imperata arundinacea var. africana
Imperata arundinacea var. europaea
Imperata arundinacea var. glabrescens
Imperata arundinacea var. indica
Imperata arundinacea var. koenigii
Imperata arundinacea var. latifolia
Imperata arundinacea var. pedicellata
Imperata cylindrica f. pallida
Imperata cylindrica subsp. koenigii
Imperata cylindrica var. africana
Imperata cylindrica var. cylindrica
Imperata cylindrica var. europaea
Imperata cylindrica var. koenigii
Imperata cylindrica var. latifolia
Imperata cylindrica var. major
Imperata cylindrica var. parviflora
Imperata cylindrica var. pedicellata
Imperata cylindrica var. thunbergii
Imperata dinteri
Imperata filifolia
Imperata koenigii
Imperata koenigii var. major
Imperata laguroides
Imperata latifolia
Imperata pedicellata
Imperata praecoquis
Imperata robustior
Imperata sieberi
Imperata sisca
Imperata thunbergii
Saccharum cylindricum
Saccharum cylindricum var. europaeum
Saccharum diandrum
Saccharum europaeum
Saccharum indum
Saccharum koenigii
Saccharum laguroides
Saccharum sisca
Saccharum spicatum
Saccharum thunbergii

OVERVIEW

WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Imperata cylindrica thrives in direct bright light and requires moderate temperatures. It prefers soil that dries out partially between waterings and can tolerate moderate humidity levels. Regular pruning is necessary to manage its growth and prevent it from becoming invasive.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in nutrient-rich soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and invasiveness.
Repotting
Repot Imperata cylindrica every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently separate the rhizomes and replant them in fresh soil.
Propagation
Propagate by dividing the rhizomes in early spring or late fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes, ensuring each division has roots attached. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil.
Pruning
Prune regularly to control the plant's spread and maintain its shape. Cut back any dead or damaged foliage and remove any unwanted rhizomes. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring.
Toxicity
Imperata cylindrica is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it can become invasive and outcompete native plants if not managed properly.
Additional
Imperata cylindrica can be an attractive addition to gardens but requires careful management to prevent it from becoming invasive. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep it under control.
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How To Grow Imperata cylindrica | EarthOne