Golden Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Graceful, arching foliage with a striking golden-yellow variegation. Unique for its vibrant foliage that adds color and texture to shaded areas.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a shaded or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
- Tuck roots into the soil and water thoroughly after planting.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate.
Pro Tip
Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight for vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring
Don't
- Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t let the soil dry out completely
- Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Golden Japanese Forest Grass questions
What zones can Golden Japanese Forest Grass grow in?
Golden Japanese Forest Grass is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Golden Japanese Forest Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Golden Japanese Forest Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Golden Japanese Forest Grass bloom?
Golden Japanese Forest Grass typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Golden Japanese Forest Grass need full sun?
Golden Japanese Forest Grass does best in part shade.
More Hakonechloa to compare
Variegated Hakone Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Alboaurea'
Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra
Nicolas Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Nicolas'
Beni Kaze Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Beni Kaze'
Variegated Hakone Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Albovariegata'
All Gold Hakone Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold'
Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Golden Japanese Forest Grass with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
