It was named after Mt.
Hakone in central Japan and it’s one of the rare grasses that thrive in shady conditions.
Unlike many ornamental grasses, it is slow-growing and does not spread invasively.
The Spruce / K. Dave
Japanese forest grass is best planted in the spring or in cool fall weather.
Japanese Forest Grass Care
This ornamental grass requires little maintenance.
In cooler climates, it tolerates more sun, while in warmer regions it tolerates almost full shade.
The Spruce / K. Dave
Tip
The variegation of the leaves changes with the light exposure.
Sightly acidic soil with apH around 6.0is best.
A good amount of water-retentive organic matter in the soil helps to retain moisture.
The Spruce / K. Dave
It does not tolerate extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizer
Organic mulch provides all the nutrition this plant needs.
Propagating Japanese Forest Grass
All types of Japanese forest grass are best propagated by division.
Hakonechloa macra ‘Naomi’ is a type of Japanese forest grass with red, as well as gold in its leaves.Joshua McCullough/Photolibrary/Getty Images
Place the pot in a shady spot that receives some dappled light.
It will need more frequent watering up to daily, in hot conditions.
This slow-growing grass will not outgrow its container for many years, if ever.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Repotting it every few years is still recommended to refresh the soil.
To prevent this from happening, apply a thick layer of mulch over the crowns as winter starts.
If frost heave occurs, replant the clumps promptly at the proper depth as new growth begins in spring.
The best place is a woodland garden or a shady area where the soil is consistently moist.
Japanese forest grass needs partial or dappled shade and cool soil.
The grass spreads slowly by rhizomes and stolons but it is not considered an invasive species.
Hadonechlola macra.North Carolina State Extension
