Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag)

Ideal for wet areas, Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag) is a spreading, marginal aquatic perennial forming a tuft of erect, sword-shaped, bright green leaves adorned with one slightly wavy edge and a prominent midrib. In late spring, this plant bears inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in finger-like inflorescences, 2-4 in. long (5-10 cm), which give way to tiny, reddish berries. Both the crushed foliage and rootstocks have a pleasant aromatic fragrance. A great choice for naturalizing, Sweet Flag is quite versatile in the garden and makes a decorative foliage accent in water gardens and around ponds.

• Grows easily about 24-30 in. tall (60-75 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm). This plant will slowly spread over time by rhizomes to form a dense ground cover. It is not considered invasive.
• Enjoys full sun to part shade and thrives in medium to wet soils. Grows well in both boggy conditions including shallow standing water to 9 in. deep (22 cm). Do not let the soil dry out. Afternoon shade is appreciated in hot summer climates.
• This is a graceful plant for water gardens, rain gardens, stream or pond margins, and bogs.
• Low maintenance, this plant is generally disease and pest free.
• Propagate by rhizome division at the beginning of the growing season. Pot up and plant out only when fully established. Divide every few years to prevent congestion.
• Introduced into North America for medicinal, ornamental, and other purposes. Sweet Flag is native to India, Central Asia, and probably Eastern Europe.