Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron', commonly known as Japanese Blood Grass, is prized for its striking red foliage. The variety has been known in Japan for over a hundred years and was introduced to the European market by the Kurt Bluemel nurseries under the name 'Red Baron'. The leaves are flat, linear, 20–50 cm long and 0.5–0.8 cm wide, initially stiff, later arching. In spring and early summer, they are green, sometimes with a subtle reddish tint, especially at the tips. From mid-summer they turn red, becoming intensely red in autumn. The plant has moderate water requirements; excess moisture should be avoided to prevent rot. It requires little maintenance; dead leaves should be trimmed in early spring. Ideal for borders, containers, and mass plantings. It performs well in rock gardens and modern landscape designs. It pairs beautifully with contrasting plants with green or silvery foliage. It blooms rarely, and in our climate, it practically never does. This variety is not fully frost-resistant and may freeze in very harsh, snowless winters, so it requires winter protection and should be planted in warm, sheltered spots. It grows best in fertile, moderately moist soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Plants should be planted in spring or summer to allow the root system to establish before winter.