All Gold Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa)

Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold'

Family: Hakone Grass

Type: Ornamental grass

Other Common Name: Japanese Woodland Grass

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass, known scientifically as Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’, is a striking ornamental grass. It’s celebrated for its vibrant golden-yellow foliage that brightens any garden space.

This grass variety is a shade-lover, thriving in areas where many other plants cannot. Its cascading habit and luminous color make it a fantastic choice for adding visual interest to darker areas of the garden.

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass is not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to care for. It’s a slow-growing, low-maintenance plant, perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 5b-5a

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Moist

Sun Needs: Partial shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Slow

Average Height (feet): 1.5

Average Spread (feet): 2

Average Life Span (years): 15

Form: Arching

Ornamental

Foliage Color: Yellow

Leaf Fall Color: Brown

Foliage Shape: Grassy

Products That Feature This Plant

Island Design 2
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$14.95$1,345.00
Birdbath Garden
$11.95$575.00

Landscaping Your Yard With All Gold Japanese Forest Grass

Incorporating All Gold Japanese Forest Grass into your landscaping can create a sense of brightness and lightness. Its golden hues are particularly striking against darker backgrounds.

Use this grass in shaded borders, woodland gardens, or alongside paths and streams. Its flowing texture and bright color complement a variety of garden styles.

Plant it in groups or as an accent plant in mixed beds. The golden foliage of All Gold Japanese Forest Grass pairs beautifully with dark green and purple plants, providing a stunning contrast.

all_gold_japanese_forest_grass_hakonechloa_macra_all_gold_plant_by_number

Suitable Garden Styles

Woodland Garden

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass is ideal for woodland gardens. It brings a splash of color to the understory and pairs well with other shade-loving plants.

Japanese Garden

This grass fits seamlessly into Japanese garden designs, where its golden color can symbolize light and enlightenment. It complements the serene and natural aesthetic of these spaces.

Contemporary Garden

In a contemporary garden, All Gold Japanese Forest Grass adds a bold color statement. Its fine texture and arching form provide a contrast to more structured garden elements.

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass Landscaping Ideas

Pair with dark-leaved plants for contrast. The gold foliage stands out strikingly against plants with deep green or purple leaves.

Use as edging along shaded paths. Its soft, cascading habit creates a visually pleasing border that’s both elegant and inviting.

Incorporate near water features. The reflective quality of water enhances the luminous quality of the golden leaves, especially in shaded areas.

Create your own garden design!

Select our pre-made garden layouts to create a landscape that’s uniquely yours. Simple, smart, and customizable!

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, new growth emerges, bringing a fresh burst of gold to the garden. The plant starts to fill out, preparing for its summer display.

Summer

During summer, All Gold Japanese Forest Grass is at its brightest, with its foliage providing a vivid contrast in shaded areas.

Fall

In fall, the color of the grass may deepen slightly, adding warmth to the autumn garden. It remains an attractive feature even as other plants begin to fade.

Winter

In winter, All Gold Japanese Forest Grass can remain evergreen in milder climates, but may die back in colder regions. It typically retains its shape, adding winter interest to the garden.

Planting Tips

Where to Plant

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass prefers a shaded or partially shaded location. It is perfect for areas under trees, on the north side of buildings, or any spot that receives dappled sunlight.

Light

This variety thrives in partial shade, where it receives some sunlight but is protected from the harsh midday rays. Too much direct sun can scorch its delicate leaves.

Soil

Well-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal for All Gold Japanese Forest Grass. It can adapt to various soil types, including clay, as long as it is well-draining.

Spacing

Space plants about 18 to 24 inches apart. This allows each plant to spread and mature without overcrowding, ensuring healthy growth and air circulation.

When to Plant

Plant in the spring or early fall, when the weather is cooler. This timing allows the grass to establish its root system before the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.

How to Plant

Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, water well, and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Regular watering is essential, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can promote excessive growth at the expense of the plant’s form and color.

Pruning

Pruning is not typically necessary, but you can trim back the foliage in early spring to remove any winter-damaged leaves and encourage fresh growth.

By Season

 

Spring Care

In spring, clean up any winter debris, apply a light fertilizer, and ensure adequate watering as new growth emerges.

Summer Care

During summer, maintain consistent soil moisture. All Gold Japanese Forest Grass does not require extensive care during this season.

Fall Care

In fall, prepare the plant for winter by reducing watering. You can also add a layer of mulch for added winter protection.

Winter Care

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass is relatively low-maintenance in winter. In colder climates, the grass may die back but will re-emerge in spring.

FAQ

How Fast Does All Gold Japanese Forest Grass Spread?

All Gold Japanese Forest Grass spreads slowly and is not considered invasive. It forms a graceful, dense clump over time.

Is All Gold Japanese Forest Grass Deer Resistant?

Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant. It’s a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

Can All Gold Japanese Forest Grass Be Grown in Containers?

Yes, it can be successfully grown in containers, particularly if the container is placed in a shaded area and the soil is kept consistently moist.

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