Plant It Where the Sun Don't Shine...Hakonechloa macra
Posted by John Friel on Oct 14th 2022
Most ornamental grasses thrive in full sun. But most gardens have areas the sun just can’t find. Must those places remain grassless? Fortunately, no!
The shaded landscape can also employ and enjoy the graceful form and movement that only grasses bring. The go-to genus: Hakonechloa, Japanese forest grass.
This sinuous beauty grows as water flows, welling up and cascading down in supple layers of pendant, bamboo-like leaves. It’s happiest in shade, dappled or full. Northern growers can get away with brighter plantings, but the warmer the summer, the more protection it appreciates. Of the four varieties we grow, strong demand has new crops coming ready in November '22 ('All Gold') and January '23 (macra, 'Aureola', & 'Albovariegata'). Availability won't last long so book your order today!
Hakonechloa macra It says here, the straight species is underappreciated. It has the same graceful, flowing habit as its variegated variants, but in rich, solid green. Bonuses: It’s a tad taller and grows a bit more vigorously.
Height 1 – 3’. Hardy in Zones 5 – 9.
Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' This is the one that gets most of the attention. Glorious golden highlights subtly illuminate the wooded border. This was the Perennial Plant of the Year in 2009 – one of only four grasses to stand atop that prestigious podium.
Height 14-18”. Hardy in Zones 5 – 9.
Hakonechloa macra 'Albovariegata' Rich green blades, elegantly accented with narrow, creamy white stripes. One of the more vigorous growers in the genus.
Height 24”. Hardy in Zones 5 – 9.
Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold' Golden, ribbon-like leaf blades create a welcome bright spot at the edge of a shady area. Surprisingly, the most vigorous variety in our assortment.
Height 20”. Hardy in Zones 5 – 9.
When your gardening thoughts turn dark, think Hakonechloa. Think what it can do when you plant it where the sun don’t shine. Then think Emerald Coast Growers– Your Easy Choice!