Acorus calamus ‘Variegatus’ (Variegated Sweet Flag)

Ideal for wet areas, Acorus calamus ‘Variegatus’ (Variegated Sweet Flag) is an attractive herbaceous perennial forming a tuft of gracefully arching, narrow, sword-shaped leaves adorned with creamy-white and green stripes. Often displaying a nice pink tinge in cold weather, the foliage is sweetly fragrant when bruised. In late spring, this plant bears inconspicuous yellow-green flowers, which give way to tiny, reddish berries. A great choice for naturalizing, Variegated Sweet Flag is quite versatile in the garden and makes a terrific 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. Excellent choice to brighten shady areas.
• 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.
• Acorus calamus species is native to North America, and Asia.