The Perennial Plant Association has named Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ (golden hakone grass) its perennial plant of the year for 2009. It derives its name from “hakone” a region of Japan, and “chloa” the Greek word for grass.
The Perennial Plant Association describes their choice: “Golden hakone grows 12-18 inches tall and 18-24 inches wide with an arching form that resembles a cascading miniature bamboo. Individual blades are ½” wide and bright yellow in color with very thin green stripes. In the cooler days of autumn the golden foliage becomes tinged with shades of pink and red. Hakonechloa is used mainly for its golden foliage, although it does produce tiny, inconspicuous flower spikes from late summer through mid-autumn.”
Does that sound good to you? Here’s what you need to do to grow it successfully. Golden hakone grass is hardy to USDA zone 5, so we are right on the edge of where it will thrive. It would be best to locate it in a somewhat protected area, i.e., not in the middle of your open one-acre lawn. It grows best in moist, humus rich, well-drained soil. It will not do well in heavy clay or very dry soils.
Full sun to part shade is best as deep shade may reduce the golden leaf color. It requires very little on-going care. Just cut the dead grass back in late winter or early spring. It grows slowly so it won’t crowd out its growing companions. The slow growth means that it won’t need dividing for many years. If you do divide golden hakone, do so in early spring just as new growth begins.
Golden hakone grass has very few insect or disease problems and is not favored by deer. However, in Wisconsin we know that deer will eat anything if they get hungry enough.
The Perennial Plant Association suggests that golden hakone makes a good companion to hostas, especially those that have a golden edge or a bluish cast. They also recommend planting golden hakone with any plant that has purple or dark leaves, like heucheras or bugbanes. Other suggestions for nearby companions are astilbe, wild ginger, bleeding heart, epimedium and lady’s mantle.
This versatile grass can even be grown in a container on a shady deck or patio. It will cascade over the sides of the container providing a tropical look and feel. It can also be used as a ground cover, in front of a border or in a mass planting.
Golden hakone grass will light up any area that is dark or drab. And just wait until you see the breeze rippling through the leaves!
There are four requirements that must be met for a plant to be selected Perennial Plant of the Year. The plant must be suitable for a wide range of climates, low maintenance, easily propagated and exhibit multiple season interest. It seems they’ve picked a winner this year!
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