A rhizomatous, shade-loving, deciduous perennial grass that is native both to moist mountain areas including wet rocky cliffs and to moist woodland areas in central Japan, including areas around Mt. Hakone from which both its genus name and common name are derived. ‘Aureola’ is a golden-striped form, with arching green leaves variegated with gold longitudinal striping. Yellow-green flowers appear in loose, nodding panicles in mid-summer. In the cooler days of autumn, the golden foliage becomes infused with shades of pink and red.

Pronunciation: hah-koh-nee-KLO-uh MAK-ruh

Species Meaning: Means large

Hakonechloa macra is native to Japan.

Cultivation Notes

Best grown in part shade with consistently moist, well-drained soils. While it does tolerates close to full shade, particularly in the hot summer climates of the deep south, it does lose color intensity. Best growth occurs in climates with cool summer temperatures, but full sun will still burn the foliage. Trim foliage to the ground in late winter to early spring before the new shoots emerge.

Propagation Notes

Clumps spread by rhizomes, but are not considered to be invasive. Propagation is easiest by division.

4/10/21 Plant divided into7 pieces – each in a 4″ deep pot.

Additional Information

This cultivar was the 2009 Perennial Plant Association’s pick for Plant of the Year. Additionally, the Royal Horticultural Society have given this cultivar their prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

In Our Garden

Plant ID: P20161

Found in Pots,

We acquired this plant from Farmington Gardens.