Hakonechloa macra Nicolas - Japanese Forest Grass

Originally from Japanese woodlands, the hakonechloa macra or Japanese grass, forms beautiful arching clumps of linear leaves. This grass, with its bamboo-like appearance, spreads slowly and after a few years of cultivation, forms magnificent hemispherical cushions of 30cm (12in) in height. It thrives in shady areas with cool, humus-rich soil. It is perfect for an exotic garden, a cool rockery, or simply in a pot.

Hakonechloa macra 'Nicolas' has green foliage in summer, becoming variegated with orange and yellow mixed with bronze in autumn. This trendy grass is stunning in borders and can be easily grown in pots. It will find a special place in a semi-shaded corner of a terrace alongside hostas, ferns, or heucheras.

Semi-evergreen, it maintains decorative foliage almost all year round. Hakonechloa macra tolerates all exposures as long as the soil remains moist; however, this grass will have the best effect in shaded parts of the garden.