Description
Acorus calamus 'Variegatus' (also listed as 'Argenteostriatus'), known as variegated sweet flag, has upright, sword-shaped leaves striped lengthwise with cream and green. The leaves smell of citrus when crushed and give colour from spring to autumn.
Variegated sweet flag at a glance
| Botanical name |
Acorus calamus 'Variegatus' (syn. 'Argenteostriatus') |
| Common name |
Variegated sweet flag |
| Plant type |
Upright, rhizomatous perennial; dies back in winter |
| Height and spread |
60–90 cm tall, up to 50 cm wide |
| Flowers |
Insignificant; grown for its leaves |
| Position |
Full sun |
| Soil |
Wet soil or shallow water |
| Pond depth |
0–15 cm of water over the crown |
| Hardiness |
RHS H7 – very hardy (below -20°C) |
| Garden form of |
Acorus calamus (not UK native) |
Where to plant variegated sweet flag
- A sunny pond shelf with up to 15 cm of water over the crown
- Formal and garden ponds, where the striped leaves brighten the edge
- Next to dark-leaved or blue-flowered marginals for contrast
Does it spread?
It is less vigorous than the plain green sweet flag and easy to keep in check, but divide it every few years to keep clumps healthy.
How to plant and care for it
Plant in an aquatic basket in spring or summer in full sun. Cut back old leaves in autumn. Watch for powdery mildew in dry spells.
Is it poisonous?
Yes. Like the green form, it contains toxic beta-asarone and should not be eaten.
Which size should I buy?
Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.
