Hakonechloa

Description

Hakonechloa, also known as Hakone grass, is a genus of ornamental grasses native to Japan, Korea, and China. This beautiful grass is highly prized for its delicate, arching foliage and ability to thrive in shady areas of the garden. Hakonechloa is a slow-growing grass that forms graceful clumps of thin, green leaves that turn golden in the fall. It produces small flowers in the summer, but its foliage is the main attraction.

Taxonomic Information

Domain: Eukaryota

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Spermatophyta

Class: Monocotyledonae

Order: Poales

Family: Poaceae

Genus: Hakonechloa

Appearance

Hakonechloa has thin, arching foliage that grows in dense clumps. The leaves are green and turn golden in the fall, creating a stunning display of color. The grass produces small flowers in the summer, but they are not particularly showy. Hakonechloa is a relatively small grass, growing to a height of 1-3 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet. It is best planted in groups to create a lush, full look.

Care Guide

Water: Hakonechloa prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.

Fertilization: Hakonechloa does not require heavy fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.

Soil: Hakonechloa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in slightly acidic soil.

Sunlight: Hakonechloa is a shade-loving plant that should be planted in an area that receives partial to full shade. Too much sun can scorch its delicate foliage.

Hardiness Zones: Hakonechloa is hardy in zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hakonechloa is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid or damp conditions. It may also be attacked by slugs or snails, which can chew on its leaves. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. To control slugs and snails, use a slug bait or handpick them off the plant.

Habitat

Hakonechloa is native to Japan, Korea, and China, where it grows in shady areas of forests and on hillsides. It is a popular ornamental grass in gardens and landscapes around the world.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Hakonechloa be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Hakonechloa can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system and provide good drainage.

Q: How often should Hakonechloa be fertilized?

A: Hakonechloa does not require heavy fertilization and can be fertilized lightly once a year in the spring.

Q: Can Hakonechloa be divided?

A: Yes, Hakonechloa can be divided in the spring or fall. Divide it when it is dormant and replant the divisions immediately.

Q: Does Hakonechloa attract wildlife?

A: Hakonechloa does not attract wildlife, as it does not produce flowers or seeds that are of interest to birds or insects.

Related Plants

• Deschampsia
• Festuca
• Panicum
• Pennisetum

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.) Hakonechloa macra. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l930
• University of Illinois Extension. (2018). Hakonechloa. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/grasses/hakonechloa.cfm
• RHS. (n.d.) Hakonechloa macra. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17353/Hakonechloa-macra/Details