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Acorus calamus ‘Variegatus’ (Variegated sweet flag)

Acorus calamus 'Variegatus' Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Acorus calamus ‘Variegatus’ ah-KOR-us KAL-ah-mus Common Name: Variegated sweet flag Genus: Acorus
Variegated sweet flag is a deciduous, aquatic perennial with 5-foot-long bright green leaves with creamy, longitudinal stripes. Its flowers are insignificant, but its leaves are aromatic and resemble the foliage of an iris. Sweet flag makes a striking statement at the shallow end of a pool, in a bog garden, or in a marshy woodland area.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Variegated, aromatic leaves to 5 feet long. Great for a wet area.
 Care: Needs to grow in water less than 9 inches deep or in very moist soil. Full sun. Plant in containers to control spread if desired.
 Propagation: Divide every three or four years, at the beginning of the growing season. Pot up and plant once it is established.
 Problems: Rust, fungal leaf spots, wet root rot, dry root rot.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Spreads
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun Only
Moisture Wet
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Fragrant Foliage; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Summer
Foliage Color Variegated Foliage
Uses Waterside
Style Water Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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