Overview
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' is a grass in the genus Hakonechloa, part of the Poaceae family. Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, borders and containers. It is native to Japan.
About the genus
Hakonechloa is a genus of bunchgrass in the tribe Molinieae of the grass family, Poaceae, native to eastern Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Hakonechloa", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hakonechloa
In the garden
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' is a grass native to Japan grown primarily for its foliage habit and use at ground level. As a shade-tolerant species, it favours sites with limited direct sun and benefits from protection against exposed winds; an east- or north-facing position or the lee of taller plants suits it well. Plant into a fertile, well-drained soil kept consistently moist; the cultivar tolerates a wide soil pH range from acidic to alkaline. Avoid waterlogged positions but do not let the soil dry out completely during establishment. In the UK it carries an H5 rating — hardy in typical garden conditions — so routine winter protection is not normally needed beyond choosing a sheltered spot. Use Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' as a ground cover to soften shady corners, to edge borders where it can form a neat front layer, or in containers placed in partial shade. It repays a sheltered, moist site by settling into a steady presence at the front of beds or on patios; position containers where the grass can trail slightly over the rim to show its foliage character.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hakonechloa
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- acidic, neutral, alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, borders, containers
- Native to
- Japan
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered, shaded positions with moist, well-drained soil. Avoid direct hot sun to prevent leaf scorch.
- Pruning
- Cut back old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'?
Prefers sheltered, shaded positions with moist, well-drained soil. Avoid direct hot sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Where is the best place to plant Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' need?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'?
Cut back old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.
Is Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' hardy in the UK?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'?
Division in spring or autumn.
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