Golden Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola')

Golden Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'), also called Hakone Grass, forms dense, cascading mounds of fine, papery foliage. Bright green leaves carry golden stripes that take on a lime-green tone in deep shade.

This shade-loving deciduous grass adds soft texture to borders, woodland gardens, foundation beds, and containers. Pair with hostas, coral bells, or hydrangeas for a contrast between its flowing leaves and broader foliage.

Growing details

• Plant type: Deciduous ornamental grass
• Mature size: 1–1.5 feet tall and wide
• Spacing: Approximately 1.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 5–9
• Light: Part shade preferred; full shade can suit Deep South gardens
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil
• Foliage: Cascading green leaves with golden stripes
• Flowers: Inconspicuous yellow panicles in summer
• Seasonal interest: Spring, summer, and fall

Care and garden use

Maintain consistent soil moisture. Full-sun planting requires consistently moist soil, and leaves may scorch if moisture is inadequate. Mulch in winter and trim foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

Use in grouped plantings, shaded rock gardens, or containers where its cascading form can be appreciated up close.

Image credits: Megan Hansen, Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' aka Japanese Forest Grass; Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova, Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' 2020-07-31 01, CC BY-SA 4.0; Salicyna, Hakonechloa macra Aureola 2017-06-25 3197, CC BY-SA 4.0. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.