Overview
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' is a grass in the genus Hakonechloa, part of the Q43238 family. Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include ground cover, borders and shade gardens. It is native to Japan.
About
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' is a grass cultivar noted for its variegated foliage. It prefers partial shade to full shade and performs best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. The cultivar is classed H5 for UK hardiness, so it is hardy in typical British gardens. Use it where patterned leaves can brighten darker parts of the border.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hakonechloa
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-variegata' is a variegated form of Hakone grass originating from Japan. As a shade-tolerant grass it is valued for foliage rather than floral display; the cultivar's striped leaves provide contrast where light is limited. Plant in partial shade to shade on a fertile, well-drained soil that holds moisture. It suits acidic to neutral soils; avoid siting in prolonged drought because the soil needs to remain moist for best foliage performance. In the UK it carries an H5 rating, meaning it is considered hardy for most garden situations. Use 'Albo-variegata' as a ground cover in shady corners, as an edging in shaded borders, or within shade gardens to lift darker plantings. Positioning is important: placing it where the light level is low but consistent helps the variegation remain clear without stressing the leaves. Once established, it functions as a patterned, low layer beneath taller shade plants or shrubs.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hakonechloa
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil pH
- acidic, neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Grass
- Suggested uses
- ground cover, borders, shade gardens
- Native to
- Japan
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers sheltered, shaded locations with moist, well-drained soil. Avoid direct harsh sunlight 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-variegata'?
Prefers sheltered, shaded locations with moist, well-drained soil. Avoid direct harsh sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.
Where is the best place to plant Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata'?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' prefers partial shade and shade.
What soil does Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' need?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata'?
Cut back old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges.
Is Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' hardy in the UK?
Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-variegata' 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-variegata'?
Division in spring or autumn.
More in the Hakonechloa genus
- Hakonechloa macra 'Albo-aurea'Japanese forest grass
- Hakonechloa macra 'Greenhills'
- Hakonechloa macra 'Mediovariegata' (v)Japanese forest grass 'Mediovariegata'
- Hakonechloa macra 'Mulled Wine'
- Hakonechloa macra 'Stripe It Rich' (v)