Hakonechloa Macra 1Gal

Latin Name: Hakonechloa macra

Common Name: Japanese Forest Grass

Zones: 5–9

Height & Spread: 12–24 inches tall, spreading 18–24 inches wide

Descriptive Features: A graceful, slow-growing shade grass native to the mountainous woodlands of Japan, prized for its soft, cascading form that brings gentle movement to shaded gardens where few true grasses thrive. Slender, bamboo-like leaves emerge bright green in spring and arch outward from the base in an elegant, fountain-like, weeping habit, rippling attractively in even the lightest breeze. Foliage takes on warm copper and bronze tones in fall before dying back for winter. Airy, understated flower spikelets appear on arching stems in late summer, though the foliage remains the plant's primary appeal. Unlike many rhizomatous grasses, it spreads slowly and politely via short rhizomes, gradually forming a wider clump without becoming invasive — one of its most valued traits for garden use. Performs best in part to full shade with rich, consistently moist, well-drained soil; too much direct sun can scorch the foliage. Deer-resistant and low-maintenance, needing only a late-winter cutback to remove the previous year's growth. An excellent choice for woodland gardens, shaded borders, streamside plantings, or container use, and a graceful companion to hostas, ferns, astilbes, and other shade perennials.