Variegated sweet flag (Acorus calamus ‘Variegatus’) ah-KOR-us KAL-ah-mus 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.

Overview

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