Hakone Grass

Plant type: Ornamental grass
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6 (with protection) to 9

This shade-tolerant hakone grass has graceful, yellow-striped leaf blades which cascade in a fountainlike form (all the leaves face the same way). Native to the Hakone region of Japan, this deciduous grass has a bamboolike appearance. It grows to 12 to 18 inches tall and about as wide; slow-growing habit.

How to use it: In masses, in containers or as a specimen plant in the shade garden. Plant this grass where it can cascade gracefully over a short rock ledge or small slope. Combine with other shade-loving plants, such as hostas, ferns or tricyrtis, or use it as an accent by itself.

Culture: Prefers partial to full shade. Variegated selections will have more prominent color with more sun; chartreuse in shade. Requires abundant moisture during its initial spring growth cycle, but make sure the soil is well-draining. Propagated by division.

Special Notes: Slow-growing ornamental grass for the shade garden. Valued for its brightly colored foliage that has a cascading habit.

Selected Cultivars