Red Grasses

Japanese Blood Grass

• Japanese blood grass (Imperata cylindrica "rubra") is a type of ornamental grass growing in zones five to nine. It features thin blades that usually grow 12 to 18 inches tall. In summer, the upper halves of the blades turn red, reaching a wine-red color by autumn. Japanese blood grass typically does not flower and it does not tolerate very cold or hot locations. It is used in landscaping projects as a ground cover or as a border plant.

Red Fountain Grass

• Red fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum rubrum) is a decorative plant with mahogany foliage and red or purple plumes. It blooms in summertime and maintains its red flowers in autumn as well. This grass thrives in cool, well-drained soil and enjoys the sunlight. It does not require too much maintenance, apart from cutting back last year's foliage in spring. This type of ornamental grass reaches heights of 1 to 3 ft.

Red Hook Sedge

• Red hook sedge (Uncinia rubra) is a type of small ornamental sedge, characteristic to the the grasslands and wetlands of New Zealand. This red grass is easily cultivated in temperate climates and thrives in moist soils. It grows well in partial sun or shade. The grass forms groups of dark mahogany leaves, which are slightly rigid. In the U.S., it is suitable for zones four, five, six, 15 and 17, and it dislikes intense heat.

Maiden Grass

• Maiden grass (Miscanthus sinensis "gracillimus") is an ornamental plant belonging to the Poaceae family. It differs from other varieties by its narrow leaves that give it a graceful look. The foliage color is red, copper and gold, and it flowers between August and December. Maiden grass thrives in normal, humus-rich soil and is easy to maintain. Its USDA hardiness zones are four through nine and it reaches heights of 5 to 6 ft.