Japanese Forest Grass - Hakonechloa 'Aureola' - Live Starter Plant Hakone Grass or Japanese Forest Grass 'Aureola' is an intriguing perennial grass for the shade which is perfect for the formal Japanese garden. Variegated but nearly all yellow, the leaf blades have narrow green stripes, mostly near the margins. Perhaps its most fascinating attribute is the cascading habit in which most of the leaves arch in the same direction, appearing much like a golden waterfall. Plant this grass where it will cascade down slopes, drape over rocks, crawl over the edges of walls, at the front of the garden, or even in containers. Though this grass does spread by rhizomes, it is a slow grower and will not rapidly overtake its neighbors. When grown in part shade, the yellow tones in the leaves will be most pronounced. In deep shade, the variegation will be lime green. In the cooler days of autumn, the golden foliage becomes infused with shades of pink and red. People in milder climates will be able to enjoy the buff color of this grass all winter. In colder climates, it will die all the way back to the ground. Hardy in Zones 5-9. Best in full shade in southern or warmer climates. Does not like to dry out. Deer, critter and pest resistant. An absolute must for the shade garden. Stunning color for dark shady spots!