Grass Hakone Aureola

Aureola Golden Variegated Hakone Grass

Hakone Aureola, a cultivar of Hakonechloa macra, is a stunning ornamental grass celebrated for its flowing, golden-striped foliage. Its arching, cascading leaves create a soft, fountain-like mound that adds movement, texture, and light to shaded gardens. The vibrant gold tones are interlaced with subtle green stripes, producing a luminous effect that brightens woodland borders, pathways, and container plantings. Over time, the foliage may develop warmer hues in autumn, enhancing its seasonal appeal.

This graceful grass thrives in partial to full shade and adapts well to moist, well-drained soils. It pairs beautifully with shade-loving companions such as hostas, ferns, and astilbes, creating layered textures and color contrasts in garden compositions. Despite its delicate appearance, Hakone Aureola is hardy, low-maintenance, and provides year-round structure. Ideal for mass plantings, container accents, or ornamental borders, it adds sophistication and visual interest to both traditional and contemporary landscapes.

Care Instructions

Planting
Plant in partial to full shade. Space 12–18 inches apart. Use fertile, well-draining soil enriched with organic matter.

Watering
Maintain consistently moist soil, especially during establishment. Avoid waterlogged conditions but prevent complete drying.

Pruning
Trim back old or damaged foliage in late winter or early spring to promote fresh growth and tidy appearance.

Pest Control
Generally pest-free. Watch for slugs and snails in damp, shaded spots and manage organically if needed.

Soil Tips
Prefers humus-rich, well-draining soil. Apply mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil texture.