Acorus calamus
Sweet Flag
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Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Description
Acorus calamus (also called Sweet Flag or Calamus, among many common names) is a tall perennial wetland monocot of the Acoraceae family, in the genus Acorus. In spite of common names that include the words "rush" and "sedge," it is neither a rush or sedge. The scented leaves and more strongly scented rhizomes have traditionally been used medicinally and to make fragrances, and the dried and powdered rhizome has been used as a substitute for ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.
Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Blooming
Flowers are insignificant.
Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Growth
Can withstand and thrive in full sun, but requires partial shade in the hottest of climates. Best if grown in shallow water, at pool edges or in damp borders.
Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Planting
Propagate sweet flag by dividing the rhizomes in spring, then let the new divisions get established in a pot for a few weeks before planting. Space 8 to 12 inches apart, or more for larger varieties. It spreads vigorously, so if you don't want a solid mass of it; grow it in submerged containers so it can't spread.
Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Interesting facts
Native to China, Siberia, Japan and Western North America and naturalized from Turkey westwards since 16th century. Grown for aromatic foliage and Oil of Calamus. In Japan, the smaller cultivars are often grown in shallow water containers indoors.
Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus) - Soil and irrigation
These plants require ample amounts of water and are usually in standing water a couple inches deep. Leave tips will turn brown with even briefly dry soil.
