Hakonechloa macro 'Aureola' 2L

Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' (Golden Variegated Hakone Grass)

One of the most elegant ornamental grasses for the shade garden, 'Aureola' is prized for its striking variegated foliage — narrow, arching leaves striped bright yellow and green, catching the light beautifully as they cascade from a neat, mounded clump. In autumn and into early winter, the foliage takes on attractive reddish tints, adding a further layer of seasonal interest before dying back for the winter.

Deciduous and clump-forming, 'Aureola' has a soft, flowing habit that makes it ideal for the front of a shaded border, softening path edges, spilling over walls or rockery edges, or growing in containers where its cascading form can really be appreciated. It's a slow, well-behaved spreader that won't overwhelm its neighbours, and combines beautifully with hostas, ferns and other shade-loving companions. Non-toxic to pets, it's a safe choice for gardens shared with cats and dogs.

Grow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun to partial shade — variegation tends to be crisper with a little more light, while foliage stays softer and greener in deeper shade. Cut back the old foliage to ground level in late winter or early spring, just before the new shoots emerge, and apply a light mulch of well-rotted compost to feed the coming season's growth. Reaching around 30cm in height and spread, and fully hardy throughout the UK, it's an easy, long-lived addition to any shaded planting scheme.

Each plant is hand-selected before dispatch.