Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills Japanese Forest Grass

Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills, commonly known as Japanese Forest Grass Greenhills, is a refined ornamental perennial grass prized for its graceful habit and vibrant foliage. Originating from the cool, moist woodland slopes of Japan, this variety offers a lush carpet of arching, bright green leaves that bring movement and elegance to shaded or partially shaded areas, particularly for wet shade. Non-invasive and slow growing, it is an excellent low-maintenance choice for ground cover in the right conditions.

This variety of Hakonechloa Macra produces slender, strap-like leaves in a clear, fresh green that remains attractive throughout the growing season. In spring, the foliage emerges in a lively green tone, deepening slightly in summer and taking on warm golden hues in autumn before dying back for winter. As an herbaceous perennial, Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills retreats underground in late autumn, then produces fresh new growth each spring.

Compared to the more common Hakonechloa Macra Japanese Forest Grass, which has a slightly darker tone, Greenhills is known for its particularly bright green colour, which stands out in shaded planting schemes. Unlike Hakonechloa Macra Aureola, which features striking yellow and green variegation, Greenhills offers a clean, solid green for a more uniform effect.

While flowering is not the main feature, this ornamental grass can produce fine, airy flower stems in summer, adding texture to its graceful mound-like form.

Height and Width of Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills

Typically reaching a height of 30 to 40 centimetres with a spread of up to 50 centimetres, Hakonechloa Greenhills forms neat, cascading tufts that soften the edges of pathways, borders, or rock gardens.

How Hardy is Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills?

This grass is hardy in most parts of the UK, tolerating temperatures down to around -15°C once established. It thrives in sheltered locations where the soil remains consistently moist.

Uses in Garden and Landscape

Japanese Forest Grass Greenhills is ideal for shaded gardens, woodland settings, and moisture-retentive borders. It is particularly effective as ground cover beneath trees or shrubs, where its bright green foliage can lighten darker spaces. It also works beautifully in plant containers, where its arching leaves can spill elegantly over the edges. Match it with Hostas and ferns. 

Care Tips

Plant Hakonechloa Macra Greenhills in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, ideally in partial shade. While it can tolerate some sun, it performs best in cooler, damp locations and does best in wet shade. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in its first growing season. In autumn, allow the foliage to die back naturally; in late winter or early spring, cut back old leaves to make way for fresh new growth. Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser to encourage healthy foliage development.