Hakonechloa macra Aureola

Hakonechloa macra Aureola

Golden Hakone Grass

Golden Japanese Forest Grass

Hakonechloa macra Aureola is a beautiful grass forming low mounds of densely overlapping leaves of rich yellow with thin stripes of green on wiry red stems. It has green flowers in autumn.

The leaves emerge in spring with a pinkish tinge and turn a rich, golden-yellow colour in the summer, before fading to a soft orange-brown hue in the Autumn.

It grows to a height of 25cm, and spreads to 80cm. The greenish flowers while not exceptional appear in Autumn.

Ideally it likes partial shade, and is fully hardy.

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Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is a striking ornamental grass with striking variegated foliage that is native to Japan, China, and Korea. Also known as Golden Japanese Forest Grass, this plant is highly prized by gardeners for its elegant, arching form and bright, golden-yellow striped leaves that brighten up any shady corner of the garden. Here’s a closer look at this popular ornamental grass and why it’s a must-have for any garden.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is a clump-forming, deciduous grass that typically grows to a height of around 45cm (18in) and a width of about 60cm (2ft). The plant has a slow growth rate and takes a few years to establish, but once it does, it creates stunning display. The plant produces no impressive flower display, but its foliage is so stunning that it more than makes up for this.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is a versatile plant that can be grown in a range of soils, as long as they are moist and well-drained. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH, but it will tolerate slightly alkaline conditions. It also likes to grow in a partly shady to full shade location, although it can tolerate some morning or late afternoon sun. The grass can withstand occasional drought once it is established, but it will thrive in consistently moist soils. It is also tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive in all areas of the UK.

When planting Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’, choose a location that receives dappled sunlight or filtered shade, such as under the canopy of a tree or along a north-facing wall. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Plant the grass in spring or Autumn, and space the plants about 60cm (2ft) apart to allow for their mature size. Water the grass regularly until it is established, and then reduce watering to once or twice a week during dry periods. Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is a low-maintenance plant that requires very little attention once it is established. However, to keep it looking its best, you may need to do some pruning and division. The grass is best pruned in early spring before new growth appears, and you should remove any dead or damaged leaves at this time. You can also divide the plant every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain its vigour. Simply dig up the clump, separate it into smaller pieces, and replant them in a suitable location.

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is an excellent plant for adding texture, colour, and movement to shady areas of the garden. It works well in woodland gardens, rock gardens, containers, and as a border or edging plant. It also makes a great ground cover, and its foliage is a beautiful contrast to other shade-loving perennials such as hostas, ferns, and heucheras. The plant is deer resistant, making it a good choice for woodlands.