Hakonechloa macra Naomi (Hakone Grass)

A recent introduction of great interest, Hakonechloa macra 'Naomi' (Hakone Grass) forms a compact cascading mound of gracefully arching, slender blades, beautifully variegated creamy-yellow and green throughout spring and summer. As soon as the cooler weather of fall sets in, the soft foliage turns gradually brilliant purplish-red, creating a delightful explosion of colors. The cooler the weather, the more colorful the foliage gets. Delicate-looking, reddish-brown flower spikes appear in late summer, but are generally unnoticed among the leaves. Extremely adaptable, Hakonechloa macra 'Naomi' does wonders in any garden or container.

• Grown for its handsome and eye-catching foliage, this ornamental grass is long-lived, tough and unlike most grasses, loves moist shady conditions.
• Typically grows in dense, spreading cascading mounds, up to 8-16 in. tall (20-40 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm).
• Easy to grow, and resilient to pests and diseases, this ornamental grass requires little maintenance and is a fabulous addition to shady areas where it can grow as a superb accent plant, or as an effective groundcover, along paths, around trees, or in containers.
• Performs best in part shade, in consistently moist, humus rich, and well-drained soils. Full shade is tolerated.
• Cut back foliage to the ground in late winter or early spring before the new shoots appear. Provide winter mulch.
• Best divided in spring. Though this grass does spread by rhizomes, it is a slow grower, and it will not be necessary to divide this grass for many years.