When it comes to planting companions for Hakone Grass, there are several knockout duos that can enhance the beauty of your garden. Hakone Grass, also known as Japanese Forest Grass, has a graceful and delicate appearance that makes it a perfect choice for pairing with other plants. Let’s explore some stunning combinations that will complement the beauty of Hakone Grass.
1. Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ with Hosta ‘June’, ‘Frances Williams’, ‘Halcyon’, or ‘Hadspen Blue’:
Hostas are renowned for their lush foliage and shade tolerance, making them an excellent companion for Hakone Grass. The bright golden stripes of Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ create a striking contrast when planted alongside the blue-green leaves of Hosta ‘Halcyon’ or ‘Hadspen Blue’. For a bolder look, consider pairing Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ with Hosta ‘June’, which features yellow-centered leaves surrounded by deep green margins. Another option is Hosta ‘Frances Williams’, known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with blue-green centers and wide, irregular yellow margins. These combinations will add texture and color variation to your garden bed.
2. Hakone Grass ‘Alboaurea’ with Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’, ‘Plum Royale’, or ‘Silver Scrolls’:
Heucheras, commonly known as Coral Bells, are prized for their vibrant foliage colors and compact growth habit. When combined with the variegated Hakone Grass ‘Alboaurea’, they create a visually appealing contrast. Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’, with its deep purple foliage and silver marbling, complements the creamy-yellow stripes of Hakone Grass ‘Alboaurea’. For a more regal look, try pairing Hakone Grass ‘Alboaurea’ with Heuchera ‘Plum Royale’, which showcases deep plum leaves with silvery highlights. If you prefer a subtler combination, consider Heuchera ‘Silver Scrolls’, featuring silver leaves with dark veining that harmonize beautifully with the variegated Hakone Grass.
3. Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ or ‘Alboaurea’ with Astilbe ‘Fanal’:
Astilbes are known for their feathery plumes of flowers that bloom in various shades of pink, red, and white. Pairing the golden-striped Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ or variegated Hakone Grass ‘Alboaurea’ with the deep red blooms of Astilbe ‘Fanal’ creates a stunning contrast in both foliage and flower color. The fine texture of Hakone Grass beautifully complements the bold and upright growth habit of Astilbe, resulting in an eye-catching combination that adds interest to your garden.
4. Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ or ‘Alboaurea’ with Japanese Painted Fern:
Japanese Painted Fern (Athyrium niponicum) is a shade-loving fern with striking silver, green, and purple fronds. When planted alongside Hakone Grass ‘Aureola’ or ‘Alboaurea’, the contrasting colors and textures create a captivating display. The delicate, cascading foliage of Hakone Grass provides a soft backdrop for the bold and architectural fronds of Japanese Painted Fern. This combination is perfect for shady areas or woodland gardens.
In my personal experience, I have found that these combinations not only enhance the beauty of Hakone Grass but also create a harmonious and cohesive look in the garden. The contrasting colors, textures, and heights of these plants add depth and visual interest to any landscape. Additionally, the shade tolerance of Hakone Grass and its companions make them suitable for gardens with limited sunlight.
Remember to consider the specific growing conditions, such as light requirements and soil moisture, when choosing companion plants for Hakone Grass. By carefully selecting and pairing these plants, you can create a stunning and dynamic garden bed that will be the envy of all who see it.
