Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold'
All Gold Japanese Forest Grass

- Family
- Poaceae
- Height
- 12-24 inches tall
- Width
- 24-36 inches wide
- Flower color
- Silvery-green flower spikes
- Foliage color
- Bright golden-yellow
- Bloom time
- Late summer to early fall
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; trim back in early spring to encourage new growth
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 5-9
- Wildlife
- Attracts birds and beneficial insects
About this plant
Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold' is a stunning ornamental grass celebrated for its brilliant golden-yellow foliage that brightens shaded areas throughout the growing season. This graceful grass features arching, cascading blades that create a lush, flowing effect, making it an excellent choice for softening edges in garden beds or as a ground cover. While it does produce small, inconspicuous flowers in late summer, the real allure of 'All Gold' lies in its foliage, which retains its vibrant color until fall.
Native to Japan, Hakonechloa macra thrives in woodland and moist habitats, where its radiant leaves mimic the warm hues of autumn sunlight. 'All Gold' was selected for its exceptional color and performance, offering a low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking to enhance their landscapes with eye-catching texture and color. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of plantings, from shady gardens to container arrangements, providing year-round interest and appeal.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Bird Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Siberian bugloss · Sweet woodruff · Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Cooler light suits it, so tuck it on the north side of a shrub or wall where the soil stays even.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
