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Imperata cylindrica / Lagurus cylindricus / Imperata arundinacea – Cogon Grass, Blady Grass, Kunai Grass, Sword Grass, Japanese Blood Grass, Red Baron Grass, Alang-Alang, Lalang, Ilalang, Imperata Grass, Satintail

Botanical Name: Imperata cylindrica
Common Name: Cogon Grass, Blady Grass, Kunai Grass, Sword Grass, Japanese Blood Grass, Red Baron Grass, Alang-Alang, Lalang, Ilalang, Imperata Grass, Satintail
Family: Poaceae

13.40

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Description

Imperata cylindrica is a perennial, rhizomatous grass widely distributed across tropical and subtropical regions. It forms dense clumps of narrow, upright leaves that can reach 1 to 1.5 meters in height. While the wild form is typically green, some horticultural selections such as the popular “Red Baron” type develop striking red-tinted foliage. The species spreads aggressively through a deep, vigorous rhizome system and is known for its resilience in poor soils, high heat, and drought conditions. Its cylindrical, silky white flower spikes appear in late spring to summer, giving a shimmering, feathery appearance.

Though considered a serious invasive species in many regions, cultivated ornamental varieties are valued for their dramatic color and vertical texture in garden designs. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils and tolerates a wide range of environmental stresses.

Germination Guide

🌍 Tropical and subtropical Asia, Africa, Micronesia, Melanesia, Australia, Southern Europe
Easy

Imperata cylindrica (cogongrass) is a perennial rhizomatous grass native to tropical and subtropical Asia. Seeds germinate quickly without dormancy, making this species easy to propagate from seed.

Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in

14 – 28 days

Temperature

Min 20°C
Ideal 30°C
Max 35°C
🌡️ Temperature alternation recommended
— Optimal around 30°C with light; greater temperature range tolerance in early-type seeds; higher germination with temperature fluctuations

Light
☀️ Light required

Substrate moisture
💧 Medium

Sowing depth
Surface


Seed Pre-treatment
  • 🔥

    Smoke/Fire treatment
    Fire favors seed germination and limits competition
  • 📋

    Additional notes
    No dormancy recognized; seeds easily germinated under optimal conditions

Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-draining container medium; tolerates various soil types

Recommended container
Containers with drainage


Growing Tips
Surface sow seeds in containers; maintain warm, shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid drying out; keep growing medium damp between watering but not too wet to prevent rot; prick out seedlings when large enough and plant when 10cm tall; light requirement decreases in early-type seeds which show less rigid germination requirements

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