Create Your Garden
GUIDES

Acorus (Sweet Flag) - Expert Tips for Gardening Success

Acorus, or Sweet Flag, is a hardy, water-loving perennial that brings vertical interest and a grass-like texture to your garden. Here are some expert tips for successful cultivation:

  • Soil and Water: Acorus thrives in wet, boggy conditions, making it perfect for waterside plantings or rain gardens. It tolerates a range of soil types but prefers rich, organic soil that stays consistently moist. In dry conditions, water frequently to keep the soil wet.
  • Sunlight: While Acorus can grow in full sun, it appreciates some afternoon shade in hotter climates. In cooler regions, it can tolerate more sun.
  • Spacing: Give your plants room to spread. Plant Acorus 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) apart, depending on the variety.
  • Maintenance: Acorus requires little maintenance. Trim back any brown or yellow leaves to keep the plant looking fresh. It’s largely pest-free but watch for aphids or spider mites.
  • Propagation: Propagate Acorus by division in the spring or autumn. This is also a good time to thin out any overcrowded clumps.
  • Container Cultivation: Acorus also thrives in containers, especially those placed within water features. This is a great way to control its spread while enjoying its attractive, vertical foliage.
  • Safety: While traditionally used for its aromatic and medicinal properties, Acorus is toxic if consumed in large amounts. Always handle it with gloves, especially if you have sensitive skin.

By following these expert tips, you’ll enjoy the beauty of Sweet Flag in your garden while ensuring its health and vitality.

Acorus, sweet flag, calamus, Japanese Sweet Flag, Acorus Gramineus, Acorus calamus,
Refine by
Clear all filters
HardinessWhat's My Zone?
Climate Zones
Season of Interest
Exposure
Maintenance
Water Needs

Please Login to Proceed

You Have Reached The Free Limit, Please Subscribe to Proceed

Subscribe to Gardenia

To create additional collections, you must be a paid member of Gardenia
  • Add as many plants as you wish
  • Create and save up to 25 garden collections
Become a Member

Plant Added Successfully

You have Reached Your Limit

To add more plants, you must be a paid member of our site Become a Member

Update Your Credit
Card Information

Cancel

Create a New Collection

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

    You have been subscribed successfully

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Join Gardenia.net

    Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.

    Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.

    Join now and start creating your dream garden!

    Find your Hardiness Zone

    Find your Heat Zone

    Find your Climate Zone