Imperata cylindrica
cogon grass
A deciduous grass to 50cm tall, forming a loose clump of erect, linear green leaves. In summer narrow spikes of silvery flowers are produced. Good at the front of a border or in containers
Other common names
alang-alangblady grass
see morechigaya
coast grass
cotton grass
fushige-chigaya
kunai
lalang
Synonyms
Lagurus cylindricus
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Grey Silver | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Poaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Imperata are deciduous, rhizomatous perennial grasses, with flat linear leaves which sometimes are brightly coloured and, occasionally, narrow silvery flowering panicles in late summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Japan
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun or partial shade. If growing in containers use a 50/50 mix of loam-based potting compost to peat substitute. In cold climates provide a winter mulch
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required. Remove dead foliage and old flowered stems in spring
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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