Hakonechloa 'Beni Kaze'

Although this Japanese forest grass is somewhat unassuming as its gracefully arching chartreuse yellow and green variegated blades gently billow on summer breezes, it begins an audacious transformation in late summer as the tips of its blades begin to turn red. By autumn, the Beni Kaze "red wind" is in full blow as the lush mound turns burgundy red.

This spreading, bamboo-like ornamental grass adds a shapely form and delicate texture to the garden. It is best planted in cool, moist, well-drained soil, in light to open shade. The autumn grass will be more colorful with some sun. It can be used to cascade down slopes, ramble over rocks, or meander along paths or walks. It also can be the "thriller" in a "thriller-filler-spiller" container.