Hakonechloa is an ornamental grass that is native to Japan and can be found mostly in the shady, mountainous areas of the country. While it was originally used as an ornamental plant in Japanese gardens, Hakonechloa has become popular around the world for its striking foliage and elegant form. With a cascading habit, subtle stripes of color, and beautiful fall foliage, Hakonechloa is a great addition to any garden.
Hakonechloa
Definition
Hakonechloa is a genus of ornamental grasses that are native to Japan. These plants have been used in Japanese gardens for centuries, and they are now becoming popular around the world due to their striking foliage and elegant form. The plants have an arching habit and subtle stripes of color, with bolder colors emerging in the fall. They are also very hardy, making them ideal for a variety of climates.
Origin
Hakonechloa has its roots in Japan, where it is native to the shady, mountainous areas of the country. The plants were first used as ornamental elements in Japanese gardens and have since become popular worldwide for their unique beauty. In some areas of Japan, Hakonechloa can even be found growing wild. It is believed that the genus was named for the nearby city of Hakone.
Common Names
Hakonechloa is often referred to as Japanese forest grass, mountain grass, and Hakone grass. It is also sometimes referred to as a botanically-correct name, “Aka-Suzuki” in Japan. In the United States, it is known by a variety of names, including Hakonechloa macra, Japanese silver grass, and alpine grass.
Characteristics of Hakonechloa
Physical Description
Hakonechloa is a low-growing, arching grass that typically grows to be between eight and twelve inches tall. The leaves are thin and delicate, with subtle green stripes running horizontally along them. In the fall, the foliage turns to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The plant has small flowers that bloom in summer but are typically not very showy.
Growing Conditions
Hakonechloa prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It does best in cooler climates and can handle temperatures down to -10°F. The plant is not drought tolerant, so it should be watered regularly throughout the growing season. Fertilizing every few months with a balanced fertilizer will help keep the plant healthy and vigorous. Pruning in late winter or early spring is recommended to keep the plant looking its best.
Propagation
Hakonechloa can easily be propagated by division. The best time to divide the plants is in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler, and the soil is moist. To divide, gently dig up the entire plant and break it into several smaller pieces. Replant each piece at least twelve inches apart and water them thoroughly. It can also be propagated from seed, but it can take several years for the plants to reach maturity.
Popular Varieties of Hakonechloa
‘All Gold’
All Gold is a popular variety of Hakonechloa that is known for its bright yellow foliage. This variety has thin, arching leaves with subtle green stripes running horizontally along them. In the fall, the leaves turn to vivid shades of yellow and orange. All Gold prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil and can handle temperatures down to -10°F.
‘Aureola’
Aureola is another popular variety of Hakonechloa with yellow foliage. This variety has a unique arching habit, and the leaves are striped with green and gold. The foliage turns to bright shades of yellow in the fall. This variety prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil and can handle temperatures down to -10°F. It is also relatively drought-tolerant once established.
‘Albo Striata’
Albo Striata is a popular variety of Hakonechloa that is known for its striking white stripes along the leaves. This variety grows to be between eight and twelve inches tall and has an arching habit. The thin, delicate leaves are striped with subtle green and white hues, adding contrast to any garden. In the fall, the foliage turns to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Albo Striata prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil and can handle temperatures down to -10°F.
Uses of Hakonechloa
Garden Accent
Hakonechloa is a popular garden plant due to its unique beauty and graceful arching habit. Hakonechloa makes an excellent accent plant in the garden as it adds texture and movement. The thin, delicate leaves of Hakonechloa come in a variety of colors, from green and gold to white and pink, so there is sure to be a variety that will fit into any garden setting.
Groundcover
Hakonechloa is an excellent choice for use as a groundcover due to its low-growing, arching habit. The plant spreads slowly by rhizomes to form a dense mat of foliage that can suppress weeds. Hakonechloa also helps to retain moisture in the soil, preventing erosion and helping to keep plants healthy and vigorous. It should be spaced about twelve inches apart when planted as a ground cover.
Container Planting
Hakonechloa is an excellent choice for container planting due to its low-growing, arching habit. The plant will not take up much space in a pot or planter and can be moved around the garden as needed for optimum light exposure. When planting Hakonechloa in containers, choose pots that are at least twelve inches deep and have drainage holes. It is important to water the plant regularly when it is in a container, as it will dry out quickly. Fertilizing every few months with a balanced fertilizer will also help keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
Water Features
Hakonechloa is an excellent choice for use in water features due to its low-growing, arching habit. The plant will gracefully cascade over the edges of a water feature to provide contrast and movement. The thin, delicate leaves also add texture and color to the area, creating a visually appealing effect. When planting Hakonechloa in a water feature, it is important to ensure that the plant has adequate drainage and does not become waterlogged.
How to Care for Hakonechloa
1. Sun Exposure
Hakonechloa prefers partial shade, but can also tolerate some direct sunlight. It is important to provide the plant with adequate sun exposure to ensure that it stays healthy and vigorous. When planted in full sun, Hakonechloa should be given a few hours of shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent scorching of the foliage. Too much direct sunlight can also cause the foliage to turn yellow and become less dense.
2. Soil Drainage
Hakonechloa grows best in moist, well-drained soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy or waterlogged. To ensure proper drainage, it is important to make sure that the area where the plant is growing is not prone to standing water. If necessary, the soil can be amended with organic matter, such as compost, to help improve drainage.
3. Watering Needs
Hakonechloa should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. During the spring and summer, the plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. During the fall and winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks. It is important to make sure that no standing water accumulates around the plant, as it can cause root rot.
4. Fertilization
Fertilizing Hakonechloa is an important part of keeping your plants healthy and vigorous. A balanced fertilizer should be applied every few months to ensure the plant is getting the nutrients it needs. Organic fertilizers, such as compost, are a great option as they will not burn or damage the foliage. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package, as over-fertilizing can cause the foliage to turn yellow and become less dense.
5. Pruning
Pruning: Pruning Hakonechloa is important to keeping the plant healthy and vigorous. The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This will help keep the plant compact and prevent it from becoming leggy and promote bushier growth. It is best to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems and any long, leggy stems.
Common Diseases and Pests
1. Blight
Blight is a common disease that can affect Hakonechloa plants. It is caused by various species of fungi and can cause leaf spots, discoloration, defoliation, and even death of the plant if not treated quickly. The most common symptom of blight on Hakonechloa plants is the formation of circular or oval yellowish-brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. The best way to prevent blight is to water the plant at the base rather than on the foliage and make sure that no standing water accumulates around the plant.
2. Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that can affect Hakonechloa plants, usually appearing as reddish-brown spots or lesions on the leaves. The disease can be spread by water splashing onto the foliage and various species of fungi are responsible for causing the infection. The most common symptom of rust on Hakonechloa plants is small yellow spots on the leaves which eventually turn red or brown and lead to leaf drop. The best way to prevent rust is to make sure no standing water accumulates around the plant, as well as reduce watering on the foliage.
3. Slugs
Slugs can be a problem for Hakonechloa plants, as they love to feed on the foliage. Slugs are most active at night and during periods of high humidity, so it is important to take preventive measures to protect your plants. Hand-picking slugs off the plant is an effective method of control, as well as trapping them with beer or setting out slug bait. It is also important to make sure no standing water accumulates around the plant, as this can attract slugs.
4. Snails
Snails can be a problem for Hakonechloa plants because they like to feed on foliage. They are most active at night and during periods of high humidity, so it is important to take preventive measures to protect your plants. Hand-picking snails off the plant is an effective method of control, as well as trapping them with beer or setting out snail bait.
Conclusion
Hakonechloa is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that can bring a unique look to any garden or landscape. With regular care and maintenance, this stunning grass can be enjoyed for years. Pruning in late winter or early spring helps keep the plant compact and promote bushier growth while avoiding wetting the foliage and making sure no standing water accumulates around the plant is key to preventing disease. Common pests such as slugs and snails can be prevented with hand-picking or setting out bait.
