Hakonechloa macra, commonly known as Hakone grass or Japanese forest grass, is a stunning ornamental grass prized for its cascading foliage and shade tolerance. Native to the mountainous regions of Japan, this deciduous perennial brings a touch of elegance and tranquility to any garden. This comprehensive guide, compiled using research from reputable gardening websites and resources, will delve into the unique characteristics of Hakonechloa, explore its various cultivars, provide landscaping tips, and offer expert advice on planting and care.

What Makes Hakonechloa So Special? Hakonechloa stands out from other ornamental grasses due to its unique features:

• Shade Tolerance: One of the few ornamental grasses that truly thrives in shade, Hakonechloa prefers partial to full shade, making it an ideal choice for shady gardens and woodland settings.
• Cascading Foliage: The gracefully arching, bamboo-like leaves of Hakonechloa create a mesmerizing waterfall effect, adding movement and texture to the landscape.
• Variety of Colors: Hakonechloa cultivars offer a wide array of foliage colors, from vibrant gold and lime green to variegated patterns with stripes of white, cream, and green.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Hakonechloa requires minimal care, making it a perfect choice for busy gardeners.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: This grass is generally resistant to pests and diseases, and deer tend to avoid it.

Description and Details Hakonechloa, the sole species in the monotypic genus Hakonechloa, typically grows in dense, spreading mounds, reaching a height of 12 to 18 inches and a width of 24 inches. The slender leaves, resembling miniature bamboo, grow up to 10 inches long and 3/8 of an inch wide. In fall, the foliage of most varieties transforms into a captivating display of gold, orange, and red hues, adding another dimension of beauty to the garden. The foliage may remain evergreen in warmer zones. It is worth noting that the amount of sunlight a Hakonechloa plant receives can influence the intensity of its foliage color. While the airy sprays of greenish-yellow flowers that appear in mid to late summer add to the plant's charm, they are often hidden by the foliage. These plumes can also be cut and dried for use in indoor flower arrangements.

Cultivars In addition to the species with its bright green foliage, numerous Hakonechloa cultivars offer a diverse range of colors and variegation patterns. When selecting a cultivar, consider the desired foliage and fall color, mature height, and sun tolerance, as these characteristics vary among cultivars.

Cultivar	Foliage Color	Fall Color	Sun Tolerance	Mature Height
'Aureola'	Bright golden leaves with narrow green stripes	Reddish-pink	Partial shade	12-18 inches
'All Gold'	Vibrant golden-yellow	Deeper green	Partial sun	9-14 inches
'Albostriata'	Dark green with white stripes	Pink	More sun	Up to 3 feet
'Nicolas'	Solid green	Orange	More sun	12-18 inches
'Naomi'	Yellow and green variegation	Deep reddish-purple	Partial shade	Dwarf
'Stripe It Rich'	Yellow and white variegation	-	Partial shade	15 inches

Native Habitat Hakonechloa originates from the moist mountain and woodland areas of central Japan, including the slopes of Mount Hakone. It thrives in cool, humid environments with well-drained soil rich in organic matter. This native habitat provides valuable insights into the plant's preferences and helps gardeners create optimal growing conditions.

Landscaping Design Tips The versatility of Hakonechloa makes it a valuable asset in various landscaping designs:

Using Hakonechloa for Coverage

• Groundcover: Plant Hakonechloa en masse to create a lush, textural carpet in shady areas or under trees where lawns may struggle to grow.
• Border Accent: Use Hakonechloa as a border plant to soften walkways, wall edges, and transitions between garden beds and lawns. Its mounding habit can also help to conceal the lower stems of other plants that tend to lose their lower leaves, such as monarda.
• Underplanting: Use Hakonechloa as an attractive underplanting for trees and shrubs.

Hakonechloa as an Accent

• Focal Point: Plant a single Hakonechloa as a specimen plant to draw attention to its unique form and color.
• Small Garden Accent: Hakonechloa is an excellent accent for smaller garden spaces.

Hakonechloa in Containers

• Container Plant: Grow Hakonechloa in containers, pots, and planters to add movement and interest to patios, balconies, and entryways. Consider mixing it with other shade-loving plants in containers for added variety.

Hakonechloa in Diverse Settings

• Waterside Planting: Place Hakonechloa near water features, where its cascading foliage mimics the flow of water.
• Woodland Gardens: Incorporate Hakonechloa into woodland gardens to provide bright undergrowth beneath tree canopies.
• Rock Gardens: Utilize Hakonechloa in rock gardens, allowing its foliage to spill over rocks and ledges.
• Slopes and Banks: Plant Hakonechloa on slopes and banks to create a dramatic cascading effect.
• Dry Stream Beds: Plant Hakonechloa in dry stream beds to add texture and interest.
• Terraces: Plant Hakonechloa on terraces, where its foliage can cascade over the edge.
• Formal Gardens: Use Hakonechloa to soften the look of formal gardens.
• Naturalizing: Plant Hakonechloa to naturalize an area, allowing it to spread and blend with the surrounding landscape.
• Asian Gardens: Incorporate Hakonechloa into Asian-inspired gardens for an authentic touch.
• Tropical Look: Use Hakonechloa to create a tropical look and feel in the garden.
• Windy Areas: Plant Hakonechloa in windy areas, where its cascading foliage will sway beautifully in the breeze.
• Prairie-Style Gardens: Include Hakonechloa in prairie-style gardens to add a touch of wildness and movement.
• Softening Hard Edges: Use Hakonechloa to soften borders with hard edges, creating a more flowing and natural look.

Companion Plants Combine Hakonechloa with other shade-loving plants to create harmonious and visually appealing combinations:

• Hostas: The contrasting textures and colors of hostas and Hakonechloa create a stunning display. Some specific combinations include Hakonechloa 'Aureola' with Hosta 'June', 'Frances Williams', 'Halcyon', or 'Hadspen Blue'.
• Ferns: The delicate fronds of ferns complement the cascading foliage of Hakonechloa.
• Astilbes: The colorful plumes of astilbes add a vibrant touch to the shade garden.
• Hellebores: The dark green foliage of hellebores provides a striking contrast to the golden or variegated Hakonechloa cultivars.
• Japanese Maples: The elegant forms and colors of Japanese maples and Hakonechloa create a harmonious blend.
• Hydrangeas: Hakonechloa makes a great pairing with hydrangeas, especially during the transition to fall.
• Boxwood: The contrasting textures of Hakonechloa and boxwood create a visually appealing combination.

Planting and Care

Choosing the Right Location

• Timing: The best time to plant Hakonechloa is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
• Location: Choose a location with partial to full shade, especially for cultivars with golden or variegated foliage.
• Soil: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Hakonechloa prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. While it prefers well-drained soil, it can tolerate occasional wet soil.

Planting Techniques Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and with a depth a little less than the height of the root ball. Place the grass in the hole and backfill the hole with soil. Water it well and keep it evenly moist until the grass is established. Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart depending on the mature size of the variety.

Care

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilizer: Hakonechloa requires little or no fertilizer if planted in rich soil.
• Pruning: Cut back the dead foliage in early spring before new growth emerges. Hakonechloa is relatively slow to reappear in spring, so do not be concerned if it seems to take a while to emerge.
• Dividing: Divide clumps in early spring as needed to propagate or maintain plant health. After transplanting, they tend to "sit" for several weeks as they root out before putting on much top growth.
• Propagation: While cultivars are typically propagated by division to maintain their unique characteristics, species plants can be propagated by seed.
• Winter Care: In colder regions, apply a layer of mulch over the crown in late fall to protect the roots from extreme cold.
• Temperature and Humidity: Hakonechloa prefers cool summer temperatures. While it can tolerate some heat, it may struggle in extremely hot climates.

Additional Insights for Gardeners

• Growth Rate: Hakonechloa is a slow-growing grass, so patience is required, especially after transplanting.
• Hardiness Zones: Hakonechloa is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
• Potential Problems: Root heaving can be a problem in winter, especially in colder zones. Leaves may scorch in hot summers if not adequately watered. Slugs and root rot can also be potential problems. To prevent slug damage, use slug baits or traps. To prevent root rot, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
• Wildlife Habitat: Hakonechloa provides nesting materials for birds.
• Tolerance: Hakonechloa is tolerant of urban pollution, black walnut, and air pollution.

Hakonechloa is a captivating ornamental grass that adds elegance, texture, and movement to shade gardens and a variety of other settings. Its versatility, low maintenance, and variety of cultivars make it a favorite among gardeners. By understanding its native habitat, planting requirements, and care tips, you can successfully cultivate this beautiful grass and enjoy its unique charm for years to come. Not only does Hakonechloa enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden, but it also provides ecological value by offering habitat for birds. Why not introduce this remarkable grass to your own garden and experience the beauty and tranquility it brings?