Japanese Forest Grass

Uses:

Shaded Border
Ground Cover
Woodland Garden
Container Garden

Features:

Graceful Flowing Foliage
Fall Color
Slowly Spreads
Low Maintenance & Adaptable

Sunlight:

Full Shade to Partial Shade
0-4 Hours of Direct Sunlight

Growing Zones:

5-9
What is My Zone?

Japanese Forest Grass Care

Japanese Forest Grass, botanically known as Hakonechloa macra, is an elegant cascading grass for shady sites. Its arching foliage comes in yellow, bright green, and variegated hues and develops a red tint in the fall. This grass forms mounded clumps that slowly expand over time. Use it to soften pathways, retaining walls, or container edges. It adapts to a variety of locations.

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Growing Zones: 5 to 9

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All Gold Japanese Forest Grass

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Growing Zones: 5 to 8

Common Japanese Forest Grass

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Growing Zones: 5 to 9

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Aureola Golden Variegated Japanese Forest Grass

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About Japanese Forest Grass

Aureola Golden Variegated Japanese Forest Grass

Genus

Hakonechloa

Species

Macra

Family

Poaceae

Common Names:

Hakone Grass

Native To:

Central Japan

Plant Type:

Ornamental Grasses

Foliage Type:

Deciduous

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flower Color:

N/A

Flower Bloom Time:

N/A

Growth Habit:

Arching, Cascading, Clumping

Attracts:

N/A

Tolerates

Humidity

Resists:

Deer, Rabbits

How To Use Japanese Forest Grass In The Garden

Japanese forest grass, or Hakonechloa macra, is an elegant ornamental grass that thrives in shady, woodland gardens. It has a cascading mounded shape and comes in several color varieties including yellow, bright green, and variegated. This grass spreads slowly by underground rhizomes to form clumps approximately 2-3 feet tall and wide. It blooms in mid-summer with inconspicuous inflorescences that do not produce viable seed.

Its graceful, arching foliage adds texture and movement to shaded borders, complementing hostas and ferns. When planted along pathways, it softens edges and guides visitors through the landscape. Additionally, this grass is effective in container plantings, providing a lush, cascading effect that enhances patios and balconies. Its adaptability to low light under trees makes it a valuable addition to shady borders and woodland plantings.

Japanese Forest Grass Care

Japanese forest grass grows best in partial to full shade with rich, well-drained soil. Plant with the crown slightly above ground level and water thoroughly. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, and apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if needed. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

In winter, allow the foliage to remain for crown protection or add mulch in colder climates. Trim back old growth in early spring to promote new shoots and remove damaged leaves during the season. For containers, use well-draining potting soil and water regularly.

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