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Glite Dictionary
Imperata

Imperata

1 9.9
A group of grass plants that grow in warm places and sometimes spread quickly and cause problems
  • proper noun
  • Specialized
: imperata
  • The ground is densely covered by Imperata cylindrica, Cynodon dactylon, and Distichlis spicata.
  • Imperata cylindrica
  • Imperata cylindrica 'Rubra'
  • grass (Imperata)

Examples

  • Gardeners often recommend Imperata for adding vibrant color to gardens during the summer.

  • In warm climates, Imperata is known to spread quickly, sometimes outcompeting native plants.

  • Japanese blood grass (Imperata cylindrica) is often used in landscaping because of its striking red color.

Surface Forms

Imperata main

Etymology

Imperata looks like the Latin verb imperare 'to command', so a helpful way to remember this grass name is to imagine plants that take over fields. This fits many Imperata species, which spread fast and can be invasive.