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Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola', commonly known as 'Golden Japanese Forest Grass is a graceful, ornamental grass prized for its cascading, bamboo-like foliage and vibrant golden-yellow variegation. This striking plant brings a soft, flowing texture to shady garden areas, making it a standout choice for borders, containers, or as a groundcover.
Description:
Dimensions: Grows to a height of 12-18 inches with a spread of 18-24 inches. It forms a low, mounding shape with arching, variegated leaves that blend bright yellow with green stripes, turning subtle pinkish-red tones in fall.
Sun Exposure: Prefers part shade to full shade, ideally receiving 2-4 hours of filtered sunlight daily. Thrives in shaded spots and can scorch in full sun.
Water Requirements: Prefers well-drained, moist soil with regular watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; water when the top inch feels dry, especially in warmer weather.
Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 5-9.
Bloom Time: Produces delicate, airy flower spikes in late summer to early fall, though the foliage is the main attraction.
Pruning: Trim back dead foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain a tidy appearance.
How to Plant:
Location: Ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and containers. Excels in moist, well-draining soil under trees or alongside pathways.
Soil Preparation: Use rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter like compost. Slightly acidic to neutral soil is best.
Planting: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, keeping the top of the root ball level with the soil surface.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for their spreading, cascading habit.
Watering: Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist during the establishment period. Maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
Fun Fact: Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' is often called Japanese Forest Grass and originates from the cliffs of Japan’s Hakone region. Its luminous foliage brightens shady corners and has earned it prestigious garden awards for its year-round beauty!