Variegated Sweet Flag Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus' (v)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as sweet flag features a striking appearance with its long and sword-shaped foliage. These leaves are particularly eye-catching because they are variegated, meaning they display multiple colors. The base color of the leaves is a deep green, and they are elegantly striped with creamy white to pale yellow streaks, which run along the length of the leaves. This variation in coloration adds a decorative and vibrant look to the foliage, making it stand out in water gardens or when planted along the banks of ponds and streams. The leaves are arranged in a fan-like pattern, adding to the plant's architectural interest. During the growing season, sweet flag may produce inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged on a spadix, a type of spike inflorescence. These flowers are not the main attraction of the plant, as they are often overshadowed by the striking variegated leaves. Sweet flag is a perennial, meaning it will come back year after year in the appropriate climates. It thrives in wet conditions and is commonly found in moist or boggy soil, often at the edges of water bodies. The roots have a distinctive aromatic quality when crushed or bruised, contributing to the common name "sweet flag" due to the pleasant fragrance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Acoraceae.
Synonyms
Variegated Sweet Flag, Silver-Striped Sweet Flag.
Common names
Acorus calamus var. angustatus Besser, Acorus calamus var. americanus (Raf.) Wulff, Acorus calamus subsp. americanus (Raf.) H.Hara, Acorus calamus var. verus L., Acorus calamus var. calamus, Acorus americanus Raf.
ToxicityTo humans
Sweet flag (Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus') contains a compound called beta-asarone, which is considered potentially toxic. In humans, the ingestion of significant quantities of this plant can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, hallucinations, and seizures. Chronic ingestion can increase the risk of certain cancers due to the plant's carcinogenic potential. It is advised that humans avoid consuming any part of the sweet flag plant, especially in large amounts, due to these possible health risks.
To pets
Sweet flag can also be toxic to pets if ingested. Similar to humans, pets may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lack of appetite, drooling, and central nervous system depression, which could manifest as weakness or seizures. Long-term or large quantity ingestion could potentially lead to more serious health complications, including liver or kidney damage, or even cancer due to the carcinogenic properties of beta-asarone found in the plant. It is important to prevent pets from consuming any part of the sweet flag to avoid these potential health risks.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-10
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus', commonly known as Variegated Sweet Flag, has striking foliage with creamy white and green stripes, adding visual interest to gardens, ponds, and water features.
- Low Maintenance: It is a robust plant that requires minimal maintenance once established, making it suitable for both experienced and novice gardeners.
- Water's Edge Stabilization: The root system helps stabilize pond banks and water edges, preventing erosion and providing habitat for aquatic wildlife.
- Tolerance to Wet Soil: Variegated Sweet Flag thrives in moist soil conditions where other plants might struggle, making it an excellent choice for waterside plantings.
- Pest Resistant: The plant is known for its resistance to many common pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Wildlife Attraction: It can attract beneficial insects and provide habitat for small wildlife, adding to the biodiversity of the garden.
- Fragmental Scent: The leaves, when crushed, emit a pleasant, sweet fragrance which can be a delight in any garden setting.
- Adaptability: It can adapt to a variety of soil types as long as the soil is kept moist, demonstrating versatility in different garden conditions.
- Seasonal Interest: Throughout the seasons, the foliage of Variegated Sweet Flag provides a constant display of color, even in winter when other plants may die back.
Medical Properties- Carminative - Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus' has been used historically to help relieve intestinal gas and bloating.
- Aromatic stimulant - The essential oils in the plant can have stimulating effects on the brain and nerves.
- Anti-rheumatic - Traditional use suggests the plant may alleviate symptoms of rheumatism.
- Diaphoretic - The plant has been used to induce sweating, which may help reduce fevers.
- Antispasmodic - It may relieve muscle spasms and cramps.
- Digestive aid - Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus' is sometimes used to aid digestion and soothe stomach ailments.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus', commonly known as variegated sweet flag, has been traditionally used as a natural insect repellent when its leaves are placed in cupboards or among linen to ward off bugs.
- Variegated sweet flag can be woven into mats or baskets due to its long, flexible leaves, especially in parts of Asia where it is indigenous.
- The fragrant leaves of variegated sweet flag can be used in potpourri mixtures to add a pleasant aroma to rooms.
- In some cultures, variegated sweet flag is added to sachets of mixed herbs and spices to deter moths and other insects from clothes and textiles.
- The plant can be used in water filtration systems because of its ability to absorb heavy metals and other contaminants from the water.
- Variegated sweet flag is sometimes planted for soil erosion control as its roots help stabilize the ground especially in wetland areas.
- Variegated sweet flag is occasionally used in ornamental water gardens not only for its aesthetic value but also to oxygenate the water and provide habitat for aquatic life.
- Its rhizomes are sometimes used in tanning leather as they contain compounds that can serve as a natural preservative.
- The essential oil extracted from variegated sweet flag can be used in perfumery to provide a base note with a rich, woody scent.
- Variegated sweet flag can be a natural dye source, with different parts of the plant producing varying shades of yellows and browns on textiles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sweet Flag is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sweet Flag is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Acorus calamus, commonly known as Sweet Flag, is often associated with protection due to its intense and deterring scent which is believed to ward off negative energies and entities.
- Healing: The plant has a history of medicinal use by Native Americans and in Ayurvedic medicine, symbolizing healing and the alleviation of various ailments.
- Purification: Sweet Flag is thought to purify the environment when its leaves are strewn or when it's burnt as incense, thus representing cleanliness and sanctity.
- Clarity of Mind: Given its use in traditional medicine to alleviate digestive and gas issues, Acorus calamus is also connected to clarity of mind and thought, dispelling confusion like it dispels physical discomfort.
- Perseverance and Strength: A robust plant that thrives in difficult conditions, Sweet Flag comes to symbolize the ability to overcome obstacles and maintain resilience.
WaterSweet Flag should be kept consistently moist, meaning watering should be done when the top inch of soil starts to dry out. This could mean watering the plant once or twice a week, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. The method of watering should involve pouring water directly onto the soil, avoiding wetting the foliage. Ideally, provide the Sweet Flag with approximately one gallon of water every week during the growing season, adjusting for rainfall and temperature.
LightSweet Flag thrives best in partial to full sunlight. Find a spot in your garden or indoors where it can receive bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Direct afternoon sunlight should be avoided as it can be too intense, but the plant benefits from some direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon.
TemperatureThe Sweet Flag prefers temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but the ideal range is towards the moderate middle for robust growth.
PruningPruning Sweet Flag is largely done to remove old, yellowed, or damaged leaves to maintain its appearance and encourage new growth. Prune in spring before the start of the growing season. Typically, pruning Sweet Flag once a year is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSweet Flag 'Argenteostriatus' thrives in a loamy or sandy soil mix with good drainage. The ideal soil pH for this variegated sweet flag is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. A mix composed of peat moss, sand, and garden soil in equal parts can provide the right conditions for healthy growth.
RepottingVariegated Sweet Flag does not need frequent repotting; it can typically be repotted every 2-3 years. It's a relatively slow grower which allows for a longer period between repottings, however, always be vigilant for signs of root crowding.
Humidity & MistingVariegated Sweet Flag is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels but prefers moderate to high humidity. It will thrive with humidity levels of 50% or higher, which resembles its natural marshy habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Variegated Sweet Flag near a window, keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in damp areas with partial sun or shade.
Hardiness zone
4-11 USDA
Life cycleAcorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus' (v), commonly known as Variegated Sweet Flag, typically starts its life cycle as a rhizome fragment or as seeds, which germinate in spring when conditions are warm and moist. The young seedlings develop into clumps of sword-shaped, green and cream-striped leaves, and in early summer, these perennial plants may produce inconspicuous greenish-yellow spathes that are often hidden among the leaves. Over the growing season, Variegated Sweet Flag will spread by creeping rhizomes, extending both underwater in wetlands and at the soil's surface in moist garden settings. The plant continues to produce new foliage throughout the summer and may grow up to a few feet tall. As temperatures cool in the autumn, the growth of Variegated Sweet Flag slows down, and the leaves may die back, especially in regions with colder winters, but the rhizomes typically survive underground. In the following spring, the rhizomes will break dormancy and produce new shoots, continuing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
Propogation: Sweet Flag, also known as Acorus calamus 'Argenteostriatus' (v), is commonly propagated by division, which can be performed in either spring or late summer to early fall. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and split the rhizomes into sections, ensuring that each piece has at least one growth point or "eye." These divisions can be replanted immediately in moist soil, ideally with some of the original soil clinging to the roots. The divisions should be spaced about 1 foot (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow ample room for growth. Water the new plantings well and keep the soil consistently moist until the new Sweet Flag plants are established.
