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japanese forest grass nz

If you're searching for "japanese forest grass nz" to create a lush, elegant garden with year-round interest, you've found one of the best ornamental grasses for New Zealand gardens. Japanese forest grass, also known as Hakonechloa macra, thrives in our temperate climate and brings graceful, arching foliage to both shady and semi-shaded spots. This easy-care grass originates from the forested mountains of Japan and is beloved for its flowing form and vibrant colour changes throughout the seasons. Perfect for underplanting trees, brightening up borders, or spilling over the edge of garden beds, it’s a favourite among NZ landscapers and home gardeners wanting a touch of Japanese-style serenity.

Hakonechloa albostriata plant with variegated foliage.

Hakonechloa macra 'Albostriata'

Hakonechloa macra 'Albostriata', commonly known as Japanese Forest Grass, is a stunning ornamental grass. It features variegated green foliage with cream stripes near the leaf margins. It grows as a large, soft-looking mound to about 1 m tall and the same wide. This Japanese Frost Grass is commonly used to line pathways or waterways, planted under large trees and shrubs, or grown in a large container. The beauty of Hakonechloa macra 'Albostriata' affords year-round interest.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Hakonechloa macra 'Albovariegata' plant.

Hakonechloa 'Albovariegata'

5 from 1 customers

Hakonechloa macra 'Albovariegata', commonly known as variegated Japanese Forest Grass, features lush foliage that is variegated dark green with narrow, cream stripes. It grows as a large, soft looking mound to about 1 m tall and the same wide. This Japanese Forest Grass is commonly used to line pathways or waterways, added to a mixed or border planting, planted around outdoor living areas, grown around the base of large trees, mass planted either as a groundcover or on a bank, or grown in a large container.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Woodland
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Hakonechloa macra 'Albostriata'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acorus, Calamagrostis, Carex, Chionochloa, Chrysopogon, Cryptomeria, Dactylis, Fatsia, Festuca, Hakonechloa, Ilex, Isolepis, Libertia, Lomandra, Miscanthus, Ophiopogon, Poa Sisyrinchium and Stipa, or related Categories - Conifer Trees, Grasses, Mondo Grass Perennials and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search japanese forest grass nz

Why Choose Japanese Forest Grass for NZ Gardens?

Japanese forest grass is prized for its low maintenance needs and versatile growth habit. New Zealand gardeners enjoy how well this shade-loving grass adapts to partial sun, maintaining lushness even in cooler southern climates. Its foliage starts off fresh and green in spring, often develops golden or striped tones mid-year, then finishes with burnt orange hues in autumn. Hakonechloa is non-invasive and grows in tidy mounds from 30 to 60cm high, making it perfect for mass planting, groundcover, or as a feature in containers.

Explore the classic Hakonechloa macra (Japanese Forest Grass), which offers soft green leaves and classic arching form, or try one of its stunning cultivars for extra drama.

Popular Varieties Available in NZ

Alongside the classic green form, several show-stopping cultivars perform exceptionally well in NZ conditions:

All varieties offer soft texture and subtle colour shifts, making Japanese forest grass nz an ideal underplanting for trees or larger perennials.

How to Plant and Care for Japanese Forest Grass in NZ

For the best results, select a spot with dappled shade or morning sun and well-drained, organic-rich soil. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first season, and mulch well to retain moisture. Japanese forest grass rarely suffers from pests or diseases in NZ conditions, and it needs little pruning—just tidy up old foliage in early spring as new shoots emerge.

Companion Planting and Design Tips

Japanese forest grass pairs beautifully with hostas, ferns, hellebores, and Japanese maples. It also contrasts nicely with taller ornamental grasses like Miscanthus sinensis, or can be planted in bold swathes for a naturalistic, low-maintenance groundcover. Use it to edge woodland pathways or soften modern hard landscaping with waves of flowing foliage.

Explore our range and add Japanese forest grass nz to your garden for year-round beauty, serene texture, and easy care—no matter where you live in New Zealand.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

While Ficus benjamina and Corokia 'Geenty's Green' often steal the spotlight, charming plants like Olearia solandri, Pseudopanax Dark Star, and Pear Doyenne du Comice (Comice Pear Tree) quietly shine in any garden.
–The Plant Company

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