Golden Variegated Hakone Grass

Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'

Poaceae

• Part shade (best color); tolerates more sun in cool climates with consistent moisture, but foliage burns in hot-summer full sun
• 12–18" tall x 18–24" wide
• Drought Tolerance: Low; needs consistently moist, well-drained soil and does not tolerate heavy clay
• Wildlife Benefits: Primarily ornamental; deer resistant

This golden variegated selection of Hakonechloa macra, the only species in its genus, comes from the cool, moist, wooded mountains around Mt. Hakone in central Japan.  It carries those woodland origins into the garden: it wants humus-rich, consistently moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in part shade. It does not tolerate heavy clay soil or hot, dry conditions well, so in Spokane's climate it will need supplemental irrigation and a site with reliable summer moisture and some shade protection from the most intense afternoon sun. It spreads slowly by rhizome and is not considered invasive.

Gracefully arching, gold-and-green striped blades cascade in a distinctive one-directional flow, rippling attractively in the slightest breeze. Color intensity shifts with light: leaves turn brightest gold in part shade, more chartreuse-green in deeper shade, and can bleach in strong sun; foliage takes on pink and copper tones in fall before dying back to the ground for winter.

This grass is grown primarily for its ornamental foliage.

Well suited to shaded borders, woodland gardens, containers, and cascading over rock walls, slopes, or the edges of raised beds, where its flowing habit can be shown off. It pairs beautifully with dark-foliaged companions such as bronze or purple heuchera, hostas, ferns, and Brunnera for color contrast in a shade planting.  It shares similar shade and moisture needs with the astilbe, heuchera, and Brunnera. Best sited with irrigation in mind given its low drought tolerance and dislike of clay.