Golden Wood Millet

Bowles’s golden grass is a clump-forming ornamental grass with soft, arching golden-yellow leaves. In early summer, airy panicles of small yellow flowers rise above the foliage. ## Identification The RHS profile identifies this selection as *Milium effusum* ‘Aureum’ and gives Bowles’s golden grass as a common name. Its loose, tufted habit and bright foliage suit informal groupings where the leaves can contrast with darker plants. The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/91154/milium-effusum-aureum/details) describes the cultivar and its yellow summer flowers. ## Growing Conditions A partially shaded position is preferred; the RHS lists chalk, clay, loam, and sandy soils. It gives a typical height and spread range of 0.1–0.5 metres (about 4–20 inches), so allow room for a loose clump rather than a tightly mounded form. The [Takii Aureum product page](https://takii.eu/products/mili-effu-aureum/) also identifies the golden-leaved *Milium effusum* selection and lists cut-flower, cut-foliage, grass, and landscaping uses. ## Seasonal Interest The foliage provides the main display from spring through the growing season, while the flowering panicles appear in summer. In the [Dunedin Botanic Garden account](https://www.dunedin.govt.nz/bg/collections/garden-life-article/big-looks%2C-little-fuss), the cultivar is described as a graceful clump that performs in shady borders; local garden conditions may affect its final size and color. ## Maintenance Remove untidy or faded foliage in spring as new growth begins. Divide established clumps when needed, or allow seedlings to grow where they are welcome; Dunedin Botanic Garden notes that this selection comes true from seed.