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Plant Profiles / Japanese forest grass
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Japanese forest grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' · Hakone grass
A soft, cascading ornamental grass with golden-striped leaves that flow like water. One of the few grasses that thrives in shade.
Part shadeLight
Twice a weekWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Part shade
ShadeFull sun
Bright shade; afternoon sun scorches it.
Water
Twice a week
DryWet
Keep moist.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-25–30°C (-13–86°F)
CoolWarm
Prefers cooler climates.
Growth
Slow, cascading
SlowFast
Grows 30–45 cm.
Soil
Rich, moist
LeanRich
Add compost.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light feed.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Native to the mountains of Japan, Hakonechloa forms graceful mounds. The foliage brightens shaded spots and turns copper in autumn. It's deciduous, dying back in winter.
Best spots
Shaded balconies, pot edges, woodland gardens and courtyards.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Origin | Japan |
| Plant type | Deciduous grass |
| Mature size | 30–45 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Golden-striped, cascading leaves |
| Flowers | Fine, insignificant |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Autumn colour
Cut back
Divide
Active growthAutumn colourCut backDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Scorched leaves | Too much sun. |
| Greener leaves | Too much shade. |
| Brown, crispy | Dry soil. |
| Slow growth | Normal. |
| Dieback in winter | Normal. |
Common questions
Does it grow in shade?
Yes.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Does it die back?
Yes, in winter.
Can it grow in pots?
Yes.
