Japanese Forest Grass
Although Hakonechloa macra is the only member of the genus, however it comes on a number of forms, the green species, a gold leafed form as well as a few variegated forms. It is used an ornamental grass, it is a woodland species and has attractive weeping foliage. It is not invasive although is does spread slowly.
What does Hakon Grass Look Like?
This is a low growing grass with a natural pendulous or weeping growth habit. The foliage is graceful in the way that grows oaths stems and then naturally falls and then moves in the breeze. It does die back in winter and in full sun in hot climates it can also die back. In the right conditions, it is easy care.
How to Grow Hakonechloa macra – Basic Care
It is a grass that does like a humus rich soil and although it naturally grows in forest areas, it like light or dappled shade rather than deep shade. It does not perform well in deep shade. It will grow in containers however .
- Reaching around 18 inches (45cm) in height and will spread slowly to form a clump. The spread rate is slow and this is not an aggressive grass.
- To quickly establish a larger clump we suggest planting 6 smaller plants and space them at around 4 – 6 inches apart. The clump should fill in adequate in around 2 years, and be a great feature in 3 – 4 years.
- The green leafed form will cope with more sun than the yellow leafed or variegated forms.
- The foliage for each variety differs in colour with the species seeing to be upright in habit that the yellow or variegated forms..
- This is a grass that will die back in winter, we suggest leaguing the old foliage on through winter and then removing it in spring as soon as first sight of new growth are evident. This will provide interest through winter and some protection from frosts as well.`
- Cold Hardiness. are suitable, the colder the zone the more protection it will need over winter, so consider growing this one in containers in colder areas, and overwintering under cover. So USDA Zones 5 – 9.
- It does not grow well in very humid tropical conditions.
Where to grow Hakonechloa macra
In Japanese style gardens it looks good near water features and stone ornaments. It is suited to growing out near the drip line of Japanese maples such as Acer palmated disectum ‘’Hana Matoi’ and others.
Hakon grass can be used as a border plant along pathways in areas of light shade, or in clumps in the garden border.
It is not suited to foot traffic areas.
Watering
The frequency of watering depends on the climate and the soil. If the soil is moist it does not need watering, if the soil begins to dry then a deep watering is best.
In the right soil, a once a week deep watering should be all that’s required and only during dry periods.
Propagation
Usually by division as the plant spreads by underground runners, also possible from seed although the plant does not always come true from seed..
If you are dividing or transplanting, the best time to do this is in early late winter to early spring. You will need to provide extra water through the first summer for best growth.
Does it flower?
Yes it will flower in early to mid summer, however the flowers are insignificant and not a real feature.
Is it toxic to Dogs and Cats?
Hakonechloa macra is regarded as being pet friendly and non-toxic to both cats.
Summary Guidlines
- Botanical name – Hakonechloa macra
- Common Names – Hakon Grass, Japanese Forest Grass, Japanese Temple Grass.
- Family: Poaceae
- Genus – Hakonechloa
- Origins – Central Japan, named after Mt Hakone which is close to Mt Fuji.
- Growth Habit – Grass like.
- Position – Part Shade to full sun depending on climate. Not suited tomdeep shade.
- Height – To around 18 inches (45cm)
- Spread – Clump forming.
- Front tolerant – Light frosts only.
- Drought tolerant – No
- Soil – Humus rich well drained with some moisture.
- Container Growth – Yes