Sweet Flag

Acorus calamus is an impressive, tall perennial that grows in shallow freshwater margins. When the leaves are rubbed or crushed, they will give off a sweet scent, hence why it was a popular floor covering in ancient times. This plant also has a long history of medicinal and culinary use. Plant out in a medium container, using aquatic soil and a top layer of pea gravel. As it grows, the rhizome will produce multiple rootlets which grow out into shallow water; as the rootlets hang down in the water, the plant will provide beneficial filtration. During May-August, the plant will produce long green spathes and upon each, a yellowish-green cylindrical spadix (7-9cm) will form, projecting at an angle. The brilliant green, erect leaves provide an excellent habitat for emerging and resting dragonflies, damselflies, and other aquatic life. Decaying foliage is best trimmed back during the autumn, and the plant should be divided every few years to prevent congestion. To propagate this plant, divide the rhizome at the beginning of the growing season and plant directly in the position where you wish it to grow. A. calamus is generally pest free, but occasionally suffers from powdery mildews. This species has become naturalised in Britain.

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