PERENNNIAL PLANT OF THE YEAR 2009
Golden Variegated Hakonechloa
Japanese Forest Grass
Zone 5 - 9
Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' is a gorgeous, low-growing grass with bright, golden-yellow foliage with a narrow green stripe. The long arching blades create a marvelous flowing effect. In a breeze the grass rustles, undulates and sways giving the effect of cascading water. It's vivid colour is sure to brighten any shaded area.
This is a slow spreading grass but never invasive or a threat to neighbouring plants. In fact you will wish that it grew faster! Also known as Japanese Forest Grass, Hakonechloa is best grown in a cool garden location. Partial shade is ideal however it will also do well in full shade. Most importantly keep this grass out of the hot afternoon sun particularly in more southerly climates. Hakone Grass prefers fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. It will not grow well (if at all) in heavy clay, poorly drained or very dry soil.
Hakone Grass is a fantastic companion for virtually any shady garden perennial. Try it with a blue hosta, or one trimmed with gold. For an eye-popping combination grow Hakone beside a dark leafed Heuchera. Brighten up your traditional green garden with a big splash of gold. This grass works well with all the traditional shade plants such as ferns, astilbe, bleeding hearts and cimicifuga to name just a few.
Hakone Grass is also the perfect plant for containers. Add some pizzazz to your containers! Just imagine this gorgeous grass cascading over the edge of your urn or patio planter. If you garden in a colder climate the container garden is likely the best environment for growing this lovely grass.
HEIGHT: 30-45 cm SPREAD: 30-50 cm
1 gallon container size
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Image courtesy of NVK Holdings
