Japanese Forest Ornamental Grasses (Hakonechloa Macra)

Japanese Forest Ornamental Grasses Description

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra) is one of the finest ornamental grasses for shaded gardens. Native to Japan, it forms elegant mounds of arching foliage that add movement, texture, and year-round interest to borders, woodland gardens, and containers. Unlike many ornamental grasses that prefer full sun, Hakonechloa thrives in partial or full shade, making it an excellent choice for brightening darker areas of the garden.

During spring and summer, its graceful leaves provide soft green colour before turning beautiful shades of gold, orange, and red in autumn. Growing to around 30–45cm tall, it spreads slowly into dense clumps, creating an attractive ground cover that complements hostas, ferns, and other shade-loving perennials. Its compact habit, seasonal colour, and low-maintenance nature make Japanese Forest Grass a favourite for contemporary and traditional garden designs alike.

Japanese Forest Grass is a low-maintenance ornamental grass that requires only light annual care to keep it healthy and attractive.

• Cut back old foliage to ground level in late winter or early spring before fresh growth emerges.
• Remove any dead, damaged or untidy leaves throughout the growing season to maintain its graceful appearance.
• Divide established clumps every 2–3 years in spring or autumn to rejuvenate plants, improve vigour and create new plants.
• Water during prolonged dry spells, particularly while plants are establishing, to maintain healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Why Choose Japanese Forest Grass?

• Elegant Texture: Soft, cascading foliage creates movement and adds texture to shaded borders, woodland gardens, and containers.
• Outstanding Autumn Colour: Fresh green leaves develop rich golden, orange, and red tones in autumn, extending seasonal interest.
• Excellent Shade Performer: One of the best ornamental grasses for partial and full shade, where many grasses struggle.
• Low Maintenance: Requires very little ongoing care once established and performs reliably year after year.
• Ideal for Small Gardens: Compact clumps reaching around 30–45cm make it perfect for borders, edging, pots, and underplanting.
• Versatile Garden Plant: Combines beautifully with ferns, hostas, heucheras and other shade-loving perennials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Japanese Forest Grass evergreen?

No. Hakonechloa macra is a deciduous ornamental grass that dies back during winter before producing fresh foliage in spring.

Where does Japanese Forest Grass grow best?

It grows best in partial or full shade in moist, fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter.

Can Japanese Forest Grass grow in pots?

Yes. Its compact, cascading habit makes it an excellent choice for containers, patios, and shaded balconies.

How fast does Japanese Forest Grass grow?

It has a slow to moderate growth rate, gradually forming attractive clumps over several growing seasons.

When should Japanese Forest Grass be cut back?

Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring before new shoots emerge.

Does Japanese Forest Grass spread?

Yes, but slowly. It forms neat, expanding clumps rather than spreading aggressively, making it easy to manage.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.