Hakonechloa spp.
Japanese forest grass
Overview
Hakonechloa is a genus in the grass family (Poaceae) represented by a single species, H. macra, the Japanese forest grass or hakone grass, native to the wooded mountains of central Japan. It is a slow-spreading, deciduous perennial grass that forms low, cascading mounds 12–18 in (30–45 cm) tall and 18–24 in (45–60 cm) wide, the slender arching leaves all sweeping to one side like flowing water. The bright green leaf blades are 4–10 in (10–25 cm) long and turn warm shades of pink, copper, and bronze in autumn before fading to tan in winter. Airy, narrow flower panicles appear among the foliage in late summer but are small and easily missed. The plant spreads slowly by short rhizomes rather than running, forming dense, well-behaved clumps. Several variegated selections, such as the gold-and-green H. macra 'Aureola', are grown more often than the plain green species. It grows in moist, shaded woodland conditions and is slow to establish.
Native Range
Native to a small area of the mountains of central Honshu in Japan, where it grows on moist, shaded cliffs, rocky slopes, and woodland edges, often near streams.Suggested Uses
Grown as a foliage grass for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and the edges of paths and ponds, where the cascading habit softens edges and steps. It suits large containers and works well spilling over walls and raised beds. Gold and variegated forms are used to lighten dark, shaded corners.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 1'6"
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in late summer to early autumn, when slender, airy panicles rise among the leaves. The flowers are small and greenish and add little to the display, which comes mainly from the foliage. The seed heads and leaves persist into winter as they fade to tan.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Bright green, pink-bronze in autumnGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-5 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plants grow in part shade to full shade in moist, humus-rich, free-draining soils, with the brightest leaf colour in morning sun and light shade. Even, steady moisture suits them, as the foliage scorches in dry soil or harsh sun. The species is frost-hardy and dies back each winter, returning from the rhizomes in spring. It is slow to establish and spreads gradually into wider clumps without running. Plants are propagated by division in spring as growth begins. Few pests or diseases affect it.Pruning
The faded foliage is cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. No other pruning is needed through the season. Clumps can be lifted and divided at the same time to renew or propagate them.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons