Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Grass
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Hakonechloa macra, commonly known as Japanese forest grass, is a graceful, ornamental grass known for its arching foliage. This species is noted for its graceful, arching, cascading habit, creating a soft texture in the garden. Its bright green, bamboo-like leaves turn attractive shades of orange and red in fall.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high and roots active.
- Plant in well-draining soil with partial shade for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist.
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use shaded locations and rich soil to promote lush, variegated foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Apply a light mulch to conserve moisture
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full, harsh sun which can scorch leaves
- Refrain from heavy pruning during winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| 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
Japanese Forest Grass questions
What zones can Japanese Forest Grass grow in?
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 Japanese Forest Grass deer resistant?
Yes — Japanese Forest Grass is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Forest Grass bloom?
Japanese Forest Grass typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Forest Grass need full sun?
Japanese Forest Grass does best in part shade.
More Hakonechloa to compare
Golden Japanese Forest Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'
Variegated Hakone Grass
Hakonechloa macra 'Alboaurea'
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
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow 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.
