Hakonechloa Macra (Japanese Forest Grass / Hakone Grass)
Native to the mountainous regions of Japan, this perennial is celebrated for its graceful, cascading foliage and its ability to thrive in shaded and partially shaded areas. The standout feature of Japanese Forest Grass is its slender, arching leaves that form a soft, flowing mound. The foliage typically has a rich green color, but there are also cultivars with variegated or golden leaves, such as Hakonechloa Macra ‘Aureola’, which is known for its vibrant yellow-green blades. In autumn, the foliage often takes on warm tones of red, orange, or bronze, adding seasonal interest.
The plant's fine texture and mounding habit make it an excellent choice for adding softness and contrast to garden beds. It pairs beautifully with bold-leaved plants like hostas, ferns, and heucheras, or with other shade-loving plants like Japanese maples, hydrangeas, and hellebores. Japanese Forest Grass - an excellent choice for brightening up darker corners of the garden where many other plants might struggle. While it can tolerate full sun, it prefers dappled shade, where its foliage color and texture are at their best.
The plant is relatively low maintenance once established. It prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil and benefits from regular watering during dry periods. In spring, any dead or damaged foliage can be trimmed back to encourage fresh growth. Beyond that, it requires little attention, making it a great choice for gardeners seeking an attractive yet easy-care plant.
Species Available:
Hakonechloa Macra (Green)
Hakonechloa Macra ‘Aureola’ (Yellow-Green)
Latin Name: Hakonechloa Macra
English Name: Japanese Forest Grass, Hakone Grass
Species: Poaceae
Genus: Hakonechloa
Foliage Type: Deciduous.
Foliage: From Green/Yellow-Green to Red-Brown.
Flower: Green.
Flowering Period: Mid- to Late Summer.
Suggested Location: Outdoor.
Suggested Soil Type: Moist but Well–drained. Loam. Chalk. Sand. Clay.
Suggested Exposure to Sunlight: Full Shade or Partial Shade or Full Sunlight.
Suggested Exposure to Weather: Exposed or Sheltered.
Hardiness Rating: High (H7)
Lowest Temperature Tolerance: < -20 °C (< -4 °F)
Suggested Uses: Borders. Containers. Rock Gardens. Coastal and Cottage styles.
Maintenance: Cut back old, flowered stems and dead foliage at the base in late winter.
Growth Habit: Bushy/Tufted.
Growth Speed: Slow (5cm to 10cm per year)
Final Height: 50cm (1.6 ft)
Final Sideways Spread: 50cm (1.6 ft)
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