Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'

Golden Japanese Forest Grass

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ is a graceful, cool-season ornamental grass valued for its cascading habit and luminous golden variegated foliage. Arching leaves with bright yellow and green striping emerge in spring, form a flowing, mound-like shape through summer, and develop warm tones of gold, orange, and reddish hues in fall, while small, inconspicuous flower spikes appear in late summer. Its soft texture and movement make it ideal for shaded landscapes.

Type: Perennial ornamental grass

Mature Size:
Width: 18–24 in
Height: 12–18 in
(10-year size: slowly expanding clumps)

USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Arching, cascading, mounded clump
Light: Partial shade to full shade (best color in filtered light)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; prefers rich, humus soils
Water: Moderate; requires consistent moisture

Wildlife: Provides cover; supports beneficial insects


Features & Landscape Uses


Bright golden variegation for shade



Graceful, cascading form adds movement



Ideal for woodland gardens, borders, and containers



Excellent contrast with darker foliage plants




Care
Prefers partial shade and consistent moisture—avoid hot, dry conditions. Cut back in early spring before new growth emerges. Benefits from mulch and rich soil. Divide every few years to maintain vigor.

Plant type

Ornamental Grass, Perennial

Height

12-18"

Width

18-24"

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer

Leaf color

Jasmine, SeaGreen

Soil

Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Border, Container, Mass Planting

Shape

Arching, Mounded

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No