Family: Poaceae
Origin, Description & Uses:
Hakonechloa macra, commonly known as hakone grass or Japanese forest grass, is a graceful, clump-forming ornamental grass native to Japan. It is prized for its arching, bamboo-like foliage that forms soft, cascading mounds, often in shades of green, gold, or variegated patterns depending on the cultivar. Typically growing 1–2 feet tall, it thrives in shaded or partially shaded garden settings with moist, well-drained soil. Hakone grass is widely used in landscaping as a groundcover, border plant, or accent in shade gardens, and is especially valued for adding texture, movement, and a serene, woodland aesthetic to outdoor spaces.
Risks & Threats:
Hakone grass is considered a low-risk species and is not known to be invasive or naturalized in Hawaii. It spreads slowly by short rhizomes and generally remains well-behaved in cultivated settings. There is little evidence of it escaping into natural ecosystems or outcompeting native vegetation. As a result, it poses minimal ecological threat. Gardeners can confidently use this species in appropriate settings, though as with any introduced plant, it is always wise to monitor for unexpected spread and practice responsible planting.
High Risk Traits:
- Broad climate suitability (primarily temperate)
- Reported to be naturalized in Brazil
- Deer and rabbit resistant, indicating unpalatability
- Shade-tolerant (could potentially spread into intact forest)
- Reproduces by seeds and vegetatively by rhizomes
- Intentionally spread by people and likely by water
- Gaps in biological and ecological information may reduce accuracy or risk prediction
Low Risk Traits:
- Widely cultivated ornamental, with no reports of negative impacts.
- Recommended as a non-invasive alternative to other weedy grasses
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Non-toxic
- Herbicides would likely provide effective control if necessary
