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Hakonechloa macra

£6.45

Japanese Forest Grass. An attractive ornamental grass with mounds of bright-green leaves and delicate sprays of lime-green flowers in June and July. Height 35cm. Spread 40cm. Full sun, light shade. Moist, well-drained soil. Hardy.

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Description

Hakonechloa macra, also known as Japanese Forest Grass, is a graceful, ornamental grass prized for its arching green foliage and subtle summer flowers. Perfect for borders, containers, or shaded garden spots, it adds soft movement and texture throughout the season. Follow this detailed guide to ensure your Hakonechloa macra thrives in your garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
  • Spring: Plant Hakonechloa macra in early to mid-spring as the soil begins to warm. This gives the roots time to establish before the main growing season.
  • Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn. The cooler conditions support root development and help the plant settle in before winter.
Site Selection
  • Sunlight: Hakonechloa macra grows well in partial to full shade but also tolerates full sun, especially in moist soils. In sunnier locations, its foliage may develop golden tones for added visual interest.
  • Soil: For best results, grow Hakonechloa macra in moist, well-drained soil. It benefits from humus-rich conditions, so improve poor soils with compost or organic matter before planting.
Planting Instructions
  1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This allows roots to spread and anchor securely.
  2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost into the excavated soil to improve drainage and nutrition.
  3. Positioning: Place the Hakonechloa macra so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill and firm gently around the roots.
  4. Watering In: Water thoroughly after planting to eliminate air pockets and help the plant establish.
Watering Requirements
  • During active growth, Hakonechloa macra prefers consistent moisture, especially in drier periods. Water when the top layer of soil feels dry, ensuring water reaches the root zone.
  • Once established, it can tolerate short dry spells but performs best with regular watering.
  • Avoid waterlogged conditions, particularly in winter.
Feeding
  • In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to support healthy growth.
  • Mulching with compost or leaf mould in spring provides additional nutrients and helps retain soil moisture.
Pruning and Maintenance
  • In late winter or early spring, cut back the previous season’s growth to ground level before new shoots emerge.
  • Hakonechloa macra requires little ongoing maintenance, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
Mulching
  • Apply a 5–7cm layer of organic mulch around the base in spring. This retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects the root zone.
  • Mulch also helps insulate the roots over winter and enhances the visual appeal of your planting area.
Companion Planting and Uses
  • Hakonechloa macra looks stunning when planted in drifts along paths, under trees, or cascading from containers.
  • It pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, hellebores, and other shade-loving perennials.
Final Tips
  • Hakonechloa macra is fully hardy and returns year after year with minimal care.
  • Its slow-spreading habit makes it easy to manage, and its texture offers a calming contrast to bold foliage and flowers.
  • For best colour and growth, ensure regular watering during dry spells and an annual mulch.

By following this care routine, your Hakonechloa macra will reward you with graceful, flowing foliage and subtle blooms that enhance any garden space. Add Hakonechloa macra to your planting plan for reliable, elegant structure throughout the seasons.

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