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Break out of your 'Aureola' rut

comments (9) March 11th, 2011 in blogs

Michelle Gervais, Associate Editor

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Photo: Michelle Gervais

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When most people think of Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra cvs., USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9), they automatically think of the most popular and most commonly available cultivar 'Aureola'. But there are new cultivars that are just as exciting! Take, for instance, 'Beni Kaze', a golden variety with flushes of burgundy. Freeland and Sabrina Tanner planted a sweep of it in a shady bed along their driveway in Napa, California, and it's a stunner.

See more photos of the Tanners' garden...

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Another sweeping statement

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Comments (9)

gardengal4 writes: Beni Kazi is beautiful. That driveway garden is beautiful. But, I have to say 'Aureola' just has more wow factor for me. Its that weeping quality that I love and the golden foliage just stands out so dramatically. I could never be in an 'Aureola' rut, but I will definitely add 'Beni Kazi' to my list. Actually, I think its been on my list for awhile, but I never have seen it around. Posted: 11:48 am on March 13th

lisawhitley writes: i have long admired the photographic work of ms.gervis. simply put, it takes my breath away. thanks for sharing your gift with us. sincerely, lisa whitley Posted: 1:21 am on March 13th

sheilaschultz writes: I'm so late with this post, but... GreenGrowler I live in Denver. I can't seem to grow Hakonechloa 'Aureola' either, but, Beni Kaze does really well. Slow growing but so very lovely. Keep trying ;) Posted: 11:20 pm on March 12th

soilgoil writes: 'Aureola' has added light and color to my shade garden for years. I've just purchased a couple of 'Beni Kaze', and your photo of the Tanner's garden has made me decide to go out and plant them today. The slide show of the rest of the garden is absolutely inspirational. Thank you! Posted: 12:15 pm on March 11th

perennialgrdnr_z4b writes: A Great photo and a lovely garden! Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' was very slow to start growing and establish in my garden too. Over the years I have amended the soil in areas where I want it to grow, and it now thrives and has spread to form nice sized clumps in many areas of the shady borders. Yearly mulching with leaf mold or compost helps keep its roots cool and evenly moist in areas that are 3/4 shade to full shade. It can burn out in areas with dry soils and too much sun. This grass can be slow to get established, move it around to find the right spot, and amend the soil. Don't give up on it! Posted: 12:10 pm on March 11th

GreenGrowler writes: Simply sublime! I need advice, please. I LOVE hakonechloa; each time it's featured in a gardening publication, my desire for this graceful plant is renewed. The problem is, here in the foothills of Colorado Springs, in my garden at least, it will not grow. I suspect it's either the soil (horrible clay that I constantly amend) or the dry climate. I've tried half shade and 3/4 shade sitings; the poor little things barely put out a dozen wimpy-looking blades. Should I give up or does anyone have any suggestions? FYI: hosta, various huecheras & carex grow fine in these areas...Thanks! Posted: 11:25 am on March 11th

margotnavarre writes: The front entrance has great interest. I agree with both of the postings and would like to see a peak into the remainder of the gardens. Thank you. Posted: 9:09 am on March 11th

arboretum writes: p.s. an investment in hakonechloa, no matter which cultivar, is an investment never rued and always cherished!
best,
mindy Posted: 3:19 am on March 11th

arboretum writes: terrific. would love to see more of this place!
best,
mindy
www.cottonarboretum.com/ Posted: 3:18 am on March 11th

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Welcome to the Fine Gardening GARDEN PHOTO OF THE DAY blog!

Every weekday we post a new photo of a great garden, a spectacular plant, a stunning plant combination, or any number of other subjects. Think of it as your morning jolt of green.

Sign up to get new posts delivered to your inbox each morning so you'll always remember to take a look, or subscribe to our RSS feed. We look forward to sharing our garden travels with you.

If you think you have a photo that we should share on the Garden Photo of the day, email us. Send hi-res images to mgervais@taunton.com with GPOD in the subject line. We'll only respond if we plan to use your photo.