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    • Acorus

    Vibrant, Versatile Water & Bog Garden Perennial

    Discover the captivating beauty and versatility of Acorus, commonly known as Sweet Flag. This semi-evergreen perennial, with its striking grass-like foliage and delightful tangerine-like fragrance, adds a unique textural element and vibrant color to any garden. Whether you are creating a tranquil water garden, a lush bog area, or simply seeking a low-maintenance ground cover, Acorus is an excellent choice.

    • Aromatic Delight: Enjoy the sweet, tangerine-like fragrance released when the leaves or rhizomes are crushed.
    • Adaptable & Versatile: Thrives in a range of conditions, from consistently moist soil to standing water, making it perfect for water gardens, bog gardens, and even containers.
    • Low Maintenance: Once established, Acorus requires minimal care, freeing up your time to enjoy your garden.
    • Deer Resistant: Keep your garden safe from deer with this naturally resistant perennial.
    • Unique Texture: Add a distinct grass-like texture to your garden with its vibrant, fanning foliage.
    • Naturalizes Beautifully: Forms attractive colonies through slow-spreading rhizomes.

    Optimal Conditions:

    • Soil: Prefers fertile, acidic (pH 5.5-6.5), consistently moist soil. Tolerates a wide range of soils as long as moisture is maintained.
    • Moisture: Requires consistently moist to wet soil, including standing water up to 5 inches.
    • Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade is recommended to prevent leaf scorch.
    • Spacing: Plant rhizomes 8-12 inches apart.
    • Planting Depth: Ensure rhizomes are planted just below the soil surface.
    • Watering at planting: Deeply soak the root ball and surrounding soil.

    Care Tips:

    • Watering: Maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Container-grown plants require more frequent watering.
    • Fertilizing: Acorus is a light feeder. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer can be applied sparingly in spring if desired.
    • Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain a tidy appearance. Trim overgrown leaves in aquariums.
    • Dividing: Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring to rejuvenate plants and prevent overcrowding.

    Pest & Disease Management:

    • Generally, pest and disease-resistant.
    • Watch for slugs and treat as needed.
    • Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew, leaf spot (Passalora acori), and rust (Uromyces acori). Treat with fungicides if necessary.

    Acorus species are often found in wetland environments and are known for their grass-like or iris-like appearance. They thrive in moist to boggy soils, with some varieties preferring drier conditions. The plants grow best in part shade, although some can tolerate full sun.

    • Acorus gramineus Ogon 18ct Flat Acorus gramineus Ogon 18ct Flat

      Acorus

      Acorus g. 'Ogon' (18)ct Flat

      Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' (18)ct Flat Common name: Golden sweet flag, golden Japanese sweet flag, or Japanese rush (a.k.a. 'Wogon'). Zone: (5) 6 to 10, evergreen in warm zones. Sun to part shade, aquatic or wetland perennial.Mature size: 6 to 12...

      $127.64
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    • Acorus g. 'Ogon' (3.5 inch pot) Acorus g. 'Ogon' (3.5 inch pot)

      Acorus

      Acorus g. 'Ogon' (3.5 inch pot)

      Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' (3.5-inch pot)Common name: Golden Variegated Sweet Flag Height: 8-12 Inches Spread: 6-12 Inches Hardiness Zone: 5/6-10 Sun to Part-Shade Prefers afternoon shade in Southern zones Bright golden and green striped grass-like...

      $6.67
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    • Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' (4) 1-gallons

      Acorus

      Acorus g. 'Ogon' (4) 1-gallons

      Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' (4) 1-gallons Common name: Golden sweet flag, golden Japanese sweet flag, or Japanese rush (a.k.a. 'Wogon'). Zone: (5) 6 to 10, evergreen in warm zones. Sun to part shade, aquatic or wetland perennial.Mature size: 6 to 12...

      $120.46
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    Compare Selected

    Acorus (Sweet Flag): A Versatile Grass-Like Perennial for Water Features and Moist Gardens

    Acorus, commonly known as Sweet Flag, is a unique and highly versatile perennial that offers a beautiful, grass-like texture to a variety of garden settings. Unlike true grasses, Acorus belongs to its own distinct family and boasts aromatic foliage, making it a favorite for adding architectural interest to moist areas, pond edges, or even dry shade (with adequate watering).

    This comprehensive guide will provide gardeners of all skill levels with the essential information needed to successfully cultivate and enjoy the diverse forms of Acorus in their landscapes.

    • Botanical Name: Acorus (primarily Acorus calamus and Acorus gramineus and their cultivars)
    • Common Name(s): Sweet Flag, Japanese Sweet Flag, Grassy-Leaved Sweet Flag, Water Myrtle (less common)

    Acorus species are semi-evergreen to evergreen rhizomatous perennials, valued for their striking sword-shaped or grass-like foliage. While appearing similar to ornamental grasses or irises, Acorus is unique, belonging to its own family, Acoraceae. The foliage is often variegated with shades of cream, yellow, or white, providing year-round interest. When crushed, the leaves of Acorus calamus emit a distinct sweet, citrusy fragrance.

    • Foliage: Linear, sword-shaped, or strap-like leaves emerging from a creeping rhizome. Leaves are typically erect to arching.
    • Flowers: Inconspicuous, greenish-yellow, finger-like spadices (similar to a calla lily flower) that emerge from the side of the leaf-like stem in summer. They are not a primary ornamental feature.
    • Rhizomes: Creeping, aromatic rhizomes that allow the plant to spread slowly.
    • Textural Interest: Adds a fine to medium texture, providing contrast to broad-leaved plants.
    • Year-Round Appeal: Many varieties are evergreen or semi-evergreen, offering winter interest.
    • Versatility: Adapts to a wide range of moisture conditions, from fully aquatic to consistently moist soil, and even some dry shade once established.
    • Deer & Rabbit Resistant: Generally unpalatable to Browse animals.
    • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
    • Erosion Control: Spreading rhizomes can help stabilize soil along pond edges or banks.

    Growing Conditions

    Acorus is adaptable, but thrives best with consistent moisture.

    • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-11, depending on the species and cultivar. A. calamus is generally hardier than A. gramineus.
    • Sunlight Requirements: Tolerates a wide range from full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates (Zones 7-11), some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent leaf scorch. In cooler climates, more sun can intensify variegation.
    • Soil Type Preferences: Highly adaptable, but prefers consistently moist to wet soil. Can thrive in boggy conditions, along pond margins (up to six inches deep in water), or in average garden soil as long as it receives regular moisture. Prefers rich, organic soil but tolerates clay.
    • Water Needs: High water needs. Does not tolerate prolonged drought. Ensure consistent moisture. Can be grown submerged in water or in perpetually damp soil.
    • Habit, Mature Height, and Spread:
      • Habit: Clumping, upright, grass-like perennial with spreading rhizomes.
      • Mature Height: Varies greatly by species/cultivar. Dwarf forms (A. gramineus) are typically 6-12 inches tall. Taller forms (A. calamus) can reach 2-4 feet tall.
      • Spread: 1-3 feet, slowly spreading by rhizomes to form colonies over time.
    • Bloom Time and Flower Colors: Flowers are inconspicuous and typically appear in late spring to early summer. They are greenish-yellow, finger-like spadices that blend into the foliage. Not grown for their flowers.
    • Deer/Rabbit Resistance: High resistance to deer and rabbits.
    • Pest & Disease Resistance: Generally very resistant to pests and diseases. Occasional issues may include root rot in poorly drained, stagnant conditions or spider mites in very dry, hot environments.

    Maintenance and Specific Care Instructions

    Acorus is a low-maintenance plant once established, especially when its moisture needs are met.

    • Pruning: Little pruning is required. Trim back any brown or damaged leaf tips as needed to maintain a tidy appearance. In colder zones, foliage may brown in winter and can be cut back in early spring before new growth emerges.
    • Fertilizing: Generally not required, especially if planted in rich soil. For plants in containers or very lean soil, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring can be beneficial. Avoid over-fertilizing.
    • Overwintering Tips: In colder parts of its hardiness range, foliage may die back, but the rhizomes are cold-hardy. No special winter protection is usually needed, though a layer of mulch can provide extra insulation in exposed sites.

    Propagation Information

    Acorus is easily propagated by division.

    • Division: The most common and effective method. Divide clumps in spring or early fall as new growth begins or after the heat of summer. Dig up the clump, separate the rhizomes with a sharp knife or spade, ensuring each section has roots and foliage, and replant immediately. This also helps rejuvenate older, dense clumps.
    • Seeds: Propagation from seed is possible but less common for gardeners due to variable germination and the ease of division.

    Uses and Landscaping Design Techniques

    Acorus is incredibly versatile due to its adaptability to moisture and attractive foliage.

    • Water Gardens & Ponds: Excellent for lining pond edges, stream banks, or planting in containers submerged in water (up to six inches deep).
    • Rain Gardens: Ideal for areas that experience periodic flooding or consistently moist soil.
    • Wetlands & Bogs: Thrives in perpetually damp or boggy conditions.
    • Borders & Edges: Can be used to define beds, especially in areas with consistent moisture.
    • Containers: Smaller cultivars are perfect for container plantings, especially in mixed arrangements where their texture provides contrast. Ensure containers have consistent moisture.
    • Groundcover: Spreading varieties can be used as a fine-textured groundcover in moist, shady to sunny areas.
    • Focal Point: Taller, variegated varieties can serve as an interesting accent plant.
    • Erosion Control: Useful for stabilizing banks or sloped areas prone to erosion due to their spreading rhizomes.
    • Textural Contrast: Its linear, upright foliage provides a strong vertical or spiky contrast to broad-leaved or mounding plants.

    Companion Planting Suggestions

    Acorus pairs well with other plants that appreciate consistent moisture and similar light conditions.

    • For Water Gardens/Moist Areas:
      • Hostas: For contrasting bold foliage.
      • Ferns: To create a lush, woodland or bog garden feel.
      • Astilbe: For feathery plumes and vibrant color.
      • Ligularia: For large foliage and tall flower spikes.
      • Iris (Siberian or Japanese): For complementary sword-shaped foliage and stunning blooms.
      • Caltha (Marsh Marigold): For early spring color in wet spots.
    • For General Garden Beds (with consistent moisture):
      • Heuchera (Coral Bells): For diverse foliage colors and textures.
      • Sedum (Taller varieties): For late-season interest, though ensure Acorus still gets sufficient water.
      • Helleborus (Lenten Rose): For winter interest in shadier, moist spots.

    Success Tips for Growing Acorus

    • Prioritize Moisture: This is the most crucial factor for Acorus. Ensure it receives consistent water, especially during dry periods.
    • Choose the Right Variety: Select a cultivar (e.g., 'Ogon' for golden variegation, 'Variegatus' for striped, 'Minimus Aureus' for dwarf golden) that fits your desired size and color scheme.
    • Adapt to Light: While versatile, consider afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf burn on variegated forms.
    • Divide as Needed: Dividing every few years helps maintain vigor and allows for easy propagation.
    • Consider Container Planting: For easier moisture management, especially if your native soil is very dry, planting Acorus in a pot placed within a larger water feature or in a perpetually moist garden spot can be highly effective.

    With its striking foliage, adaptability, and low-maintenance nature, Acorus is an excellent choice for adding texture and year-round interest to moist areas of the garden, from formal pond edges to naturalistic rain gardens.

    Acorus, commonly known as Sweet Flag, has a unique position in plant taxonomy. It was once grouped with the arum family (Araceae) due to some similarities, but modern research has given it its own distinct spot. Here is the breakdown:

    • Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
    • Clade: Tracheophytes (Vascular plants)
    • Clade: Angiosperms (Flowering plants)
    • Clade: Monocots (Plants with one cotyledon in their seeds)
    • Order: Acorales (This order has only one family)
    • Family: Acoraceae (This family has only one genus)
    • Genus: Acorus

    Why is it unique?

    • Ancient lineage: Acorus is considered a basal lineage of monocots. This means it branched off very early in the evolution of monocots, making it quite different from most other plants in this group.
    • Phylogenetic studies: Studies comparing the DNA of Acorus to other plants have confirmed its unique position and led to its reclassification.

    Important Note:

    While the classification above is widely accepted, you might find some older sources that still place Acorus within the Araceae family.

    Acorus, with its unique evolutionary history, also possesses distinct morphological features that set it apart. Here is a closer look:

    1. Habit:

    • Herbaceous perennial: Acorus plants are non-woody and persist for many years.
    • Rhizomatous growth: They spread primarily through underground stems called rhizomes, forming dense clumps.
    • Aromatic: The entire plant, especially the rhizomes, releases a sweet, spicy fragrance when crushed. This aroma is due to the presence of essential oils.

    2. Leaves:

    • Basal: Leaves arise from the base of the plant, forming a fan-like arrangement.
    • Linear: Long, narrow, and sword-shaped, resembling iris leaves.
    • Parallel venation: Veins run parallel to each other along the length of the leaf.
    • Sheathing base: The base of the leaf wraps around the stem, forming a sheath.
    • Color: Typically, bright green, but some varieties have variegated patterns or reddish hues.

    3. Stems:

    • Triangular: The flowering stems are distinctively three-sided.
    • Erect: They stand upright, supporting the inflorescence.

    4. Inflorescence:

    • Spadix: A fleshy spike covered with tiny, densely packed flowers.
    • Lateral: The spadix emerges from the side of the flowering stem, a unique feature.
    • Spathe: Unlike many other Araceae members, Acorus lacks a spathe, a large bract that typically encloses the spadix.
    • Color: Flowers are generally small and greenish-yellow.

    5. Fruits:

    • Berries: Acorus produces small, berry-like fruits containing multiple seeds.
    • Dispersal: Fruits are primarily dispersed by water.

    6. Roots:

    • Fibrous: A network of fine roots grows from the rhizomes, anchoring the plant and absorbing water and nutrients.

    Distinctive features:

    • Crimped leaf edges: The leaves often have slightly wavy or crimped edges, a helpful identifying characteristic.
    • Aromatic rhizome: The fragrant rhizome is a key feature used in traditional medicine and perfumery.

    Variations within the genus:

    While the above description provides a general overview, there is some morphological variation among Acorus species. For example, Acorus gramineus (Japanese Sweet Flag) is smaller and has narrower leaves than Acorus calamus (Common Sweet Flag).

    Understanding the morphology of Acorus is crucial for identification, cultivation, and appreciating its unique adaptations.

    Acorus, or Sweet Flag, is a rewarding plant to cultivate, especially for water gardens or boggy areas. Here is a guide to successful Acorus cultivation:  

    1. Planting:

    • Timing: Spring or early fall is the best time to plant Acorus.
    • Location: Choose a site with full sun to partial shade. While Acorus tolerates some shade, it generally thrives in sunnier locations.
    • Soil: Acorus prefers moist to wet soil, even shallow standing water. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in fertile, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5 to 6.5).
    • Water Depth: For marginal or bog planting, ensure the rhizomes are submerged in no more than 2-3 inches of water.
    • Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for spreading.

    2. Soil Preparation:

    • Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve moisture retention and fertility.
    • If planting in a container, use a soil mix formulated for aquatic plants.

    3. Watering:

    • Acorus thrives in consistently moist or wet conditions.
    • If planted in a garden bed, water regularly to keep the soil saturated.
    • Container-grown plants may require more frequent watering, especially during hot weather.

    4. Fertilizing:

    • Acorus generally does not require heavy fertilization.
    • If desired, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.
    • For container plants, use a liquid fertilizer formulated for aquatic plants.

    5. Winter Care:

    • Acorus is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
    • In colder climates, mulch around the base of the plants to protect the rhizomes from freezing.
    • Container-grown plants can be moved to a sheltered location or submerged in deeper water during winter.

    6. Propagation:

    • Division: The easiest way to propagate Acorus is by dividing the rhizomes in spring or fall. Simply dig up a clump and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots and shoots.

    7. Pest and Disease Control:

    • Acorus is generally pest and disease resistant.
    • Occasionally, it may be affected by snails, slugs, or fungal diseases.
    • Monitor plants regularly and take appropriate action if necessary.

    Additional Tips:

    • To control spreading, plant Acorus in containers or use a physical barrier to contain the rhizomes.
    • Acorus can be grown indoors in a container with consistently moist soil and bright, indirect light.
    • Harvest Acorus rhizomes in fall for medicinal or culinary use.

    By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate Acorus and enjoy its unique beauty and fragrance in your garden or water feature.

    Spring

    • Planting: The ideal time to plant new Acorus is in spring.
    • Dividing: If needed, divide established clumps in spring to control spread or propagate new plants.
    • Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer if desired.
    • Cleanup: Remove any dead or damaged leaves.

    Summer

    • Watering: Monitor moisture levels and water regularly, especially during hot, dry periods. Ensure consistently moist or wet soil.
    • Pest control: Keep an eye out for pests like snails or slugs and take appropriate action if necessary.

    Fall

    • Mulching: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to protect the rhizomes from freezing temperatures.
    • Container plants: Move container-grown Acorus to a sheltered location or submerge the pot in deeper water for winter protection.

    Winter

    • Dormancy: Acorus may go dormant in winter, especially in colder regions.
    • Reduced watering: Reduce watering frequency during winter dormancy.

    Additional Notes:

    • Acorus is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but regular monitoring and care will ensure its health and vigor.
    • Dividing clumps every 2-3 years can help maintain plant vitality and prevent overcrowding.
    • If growing Acorus in a water feature, ensure the water level remains consistent and does not dry out.
    • Regularly check for signs of disease or pest infestation and address issues promptly.

    This calendar of care provides a general guideline for maintaining Acorus. You may need to adjust the timing and frequency of tasks depending on your specific climate and growing conditions.

    While the Acorus genus is relatively small, it offers some interesting variations in terms of species and cultivars. Here is a breakdown:

    Species:

    • Acorus calamus (Common Sweet Flag): This is the most widespread species, native to Europe and Asia. It is known for its tall, erect growth and strong, sweet fragrance. It is also the species most commonly used in traditional medicine and for culinary purposes.
    • Acorus gramineus (Japanese Sweet Flag): Native to East Asia, this species is smaller and more compact than Acorus calamus. It is often used in water gardens and as a houseplant due to its manageable size and tolerance for lower light conditions.
    • Acorus americanus (American Sweet Flag): Native to North America, this species is similar to Acorus calamus but is genetically distinct. It is less commonly cultivated but is gaining popularity in native plant gardens.

    Varieties:

    • Within Acorus calamus, there are a few recognized varieties, though they are not commonly cultivated or sold separately. These varieties often have slight differences in size, leaf color, or essential oil composition.

    Cultivars:

    Most of the variation you will find in Acorus comes in the form of cultivars, especially within Acorus gramineus:

    • 'Variegatus': This cultivar features leaves with creamy white stripes, adding a bright touch to water gardens or containers.
    • 'Ogon': Also known as 'Golden Sweet Flag', this cultivar has bright golden-yellow leaves that bring a vibrant splash of color to shady areas.
    • 'Minimus Aureus': A dwarf cultivar with golden foliage, ideal for small water gardens or containers.
    • 'Pusillus': Another dwarf cultivar with green leaves, perfect for miniature gardens or terrariums.

    Choosing the right Acorus:

    • Consider your space: If you have limited space, opt for Acorus gramineus or its dwarf cultivars.
    • Light conditions: While Acorus tolerates some shade, cultivars with variegated or golden foliage often need more light to maintain their color.

    By considering these factors, you can select the Acorus species or cultivar that best suits your needs and preferences.

    Acorus can be a striking choice for mass plantings, particularly in moist or wet areas where it can thrive. Here is why it works and which types to consider:  

    Why Acorus is effective in mass plantings:

    • Textural Interest: The upright, sword-like foliage of Acorus adds a unique vertical element and textural contrast to landscapes, especially when planted alongside plants with different forms.
    • Water-wise: Once established, Acorus requires minimal watering, making it an excellent choice for areas with poor drainage or along water features.
    • Erosion Control: The dense rhizomatous growth of Acorus helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion along shorelines or in boggy areas.
    • Low Maintenance: Acorus is generally pest and disease-resistant and requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes.
    • Fragrance: The aromatic foliage adds a pleasant sensory dimension to the garden, especially when the leaves are brushed against or crushed.

    Recommended Acorus for mass plantings:

    • Acorus calamus (Common Sweet Flag): Its tall, robust growth and strong fragrance make it a bold statement in mass plantings.
    • Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' (Golden Sweet Flag): The bright golden foliage of this cultivar creates a vibrant and luminous effect when planted en masse.
    • Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus': The creamy white stripes on the leaves add a touch of elegance and contrast to mass plantings.
    • Acorus gramineus 'Minimus Aureus': This dwarf cultivar with golden foliage is perfect for creating a low-growing, colorful carpet in smaller areas.

    Tips for mass planting Acorus:

    • Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and spread.
    • Soil Preparation: Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
    • Moisture: Ensure consistent moisture, especially during the establishment phase. Acorus thrives in moist to wet conditions.
    • Light: While Acorus tolerates some shade, cultivars with variegated or golden foliage benefit from more sunlight to maintain their vibrant colors.
    • Edge Control: Consider using a physical barrier to contain the spread of Acorus, especially in smaller gardens or confined areas.

    Design Ideas:

    • Water Gardens: Plant Acorus along the edges of ponds, streams, or water features to soften the hardscape and create a naturalized look.
    • Bog Gardens: Combine Acorus with other moisture-loving plants like Iris, Astilbe, and ferns to create a lush and vibrant bog garden.
    • Rain Gardens: Utilize Acorus in rain gardens to help manage runoff and filter pollutants.
    • Container Plantings: Grow Acorus in large containers to add a vertical element and textural contrast to patios or decks.

    By following these tips and considering the unique characteristics of each Acorus species and cultivar, you can create stunning mass plantings that add beauty, fragrance, and ecological benefits to your landscape.

    Acorus gramineus FAQ

    Grassy-Leaved Sweet Flag, Japanese Sweetflag, Japanese Sweet Flag, Slender Sweet Flag

    AH-kor-us gram-IN-ee-us

    Acorus gramineus (grassy-leaved sweet flag) is a popular ornamental plant often mistaken for a grass due to its similar appearance. It thrives in wet, boggy conditions and prefers damp soil, tolerating up to 4 inches of standing water.

    Meaning behind the name: The common name insinuates that the plant is sweet-smelling, which they are (at least when they are crushed). Gramineus means grass in Latin.

    Family Change: This plant has its own family group (Acoraceae) though it used to be in the Arum family.

    Native to: eastern China (specifically, China, Japan, Korea, India, Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines)

    Insect, Disease, or Other Plant Problems: Insect and disease problems are not a problem for this plant. However, if soils are dry, issues can arouse (such as scorching).

    Possible locations to plant: Acorus gramineus can be planted to the side of streams, bogs, ponds, in woodlands, along water banks, in rock gardens, for foundation plants, accent plants, or even along a border front. Great for an edging groundcover. Good container plant if kept moist.

    • Genus: Acorus
    • Species: gramineus
    • Family: Acoraceae
    • Resistant To: erosion, wet soil
    • Height: 0 ft. 6 in. - 1 ft. 0 in.
    • Width: 0 ft. 6 in. - 1 ft. 0 in.
    • Herbaceous Perennial Ground Cover
    • Ornamental Grasses and Sedges
    • Semi-evergreen
    • Habit/Form: Dense, Erect
    • Maintenance: Low
    • Texture: Fine
    • Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) - Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours)
    • Soil Drainage: Frequent Standing Water, Occasionally Wet
    • Plant Spacing: Less than 12 inches
    • USDA Plant Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
    • Flower Color: Gold/Yellow, Green
    • Insignificant
    • Flower Inflorescence: Spike
    • Flower Bloom Time: Spring - Summer
    • Flower Size: 3-6 inches
    • Flower Description: These small, lateral flowers are green and yellow, blooming in mid-spring/ summer (around May to June) on a spadix that is about 3 inches long (2-4 inches).
    • Leaf Characteristics: Semi-evergreen
    • Leaf Color: Green
    • Leaf Feel: Glossy
    • Fragrant
    • Leaf Length: > 6 inches
    • Leaf Width: < 1 inch
    • Leaf Description: In general, Acorus gramineus's leaves are 1/4 inch wide, 6-12 inches long (but may be up to 18 inches long), narrow, linear, shiny/glossy, erect, smell sweet (fragrant), may be dark green, and speads by roots. This plant is grown for foliage. which smells sweet.
    • Container
    • Naturalized Area
    • Slope/Bank
    • Small Space
    • Woodland
    • Rain Garden
    • Rock Garden
    • Water Garden
    • Accent
    • Border
    • Foundation Planting
    • Mass Planting
    • Resistance: Erosion, Wet Soil
    Acorus is a genus of perennial plants that typically grow in wet or marshy areas. They have long, slender, sword-like leaves that are often variegated and emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed.
    Acorus plants require consistent moisture. Plant them in well-drained, loamy soil with partial to full sun. Mulch can help retain moisture. Prune dead or yellowing leaves regularly and divide the clumps every few years to maintain healthy growth.
    There are several varieties of Acorus, including Acorus calamus (sweet flag), Acorus gramineus (Japanese sweet flag), and various cultivars with different leaf colors like 'Variegatus' with striped leaves.
    Acorus plants can spread, especially in moist conditions, but they are not typically considered highly invasive. Regular maintenance, such as dividing the clumps, can help control their growth.
    Acorus plants are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they may occasionally attract aphids or mealybugs. Regular inspection and appropriate treatment can help manage these issues.
    Acorus can be propagated through division. Dig up the clumps in early spring or late summer, separate them into smaller sections, and replant them in prepared soil.
    Acorus plants are generally considered deer-resistant due to their strong fragrance and bitter taste, which deer tend to avoid.

    Acorus gramineus, commonly known as Japanese sweet flag or Japanese rush, is a charming, grass-like perennial that brings texture and subtle beauty to gardens, especially in moist or wet areas. While it is not a true grass, it is often used as an ornamental grass due to its foliage.

    Characteristics:

    • Foliage: Its most striking feature is its foliage - narrow, linear, and grass-like, growing in dense clumps. The leaves are typically bright green and glossy, with a sweet, slightly citrusy fragrance when crushed.
    • Flowers: It produces insignificant, greenish-yellow flowers on small spikes that are often hidden within the foliage.
    • Height: Generally, reaches a height of 6-12 inches, but can sometimes grow up to 18 inches tall.
    • Spread: Spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming attractive clumps.
    • Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

    Growing Conditions:

    • Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full shade, but can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates.
    • Soil: Thrives in moist to wet soils, and even tolerates standing water. It is an excellent choice for bog gardens, water gardens, and areas with poor drainage.
    • Water: Needs consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods.
    • Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.

    Popular Cultivars:

    • 'Ogon': A popular cultivar with golden-yellow foliage that brightens up shady areas.
    • 'Variegatus': Features green leaves with creamy-white stripes.
    • 'Minimus Aureus': A dwarf cultivar with golden foliage, reaching only 4-6 inches tall.

    Benefits:

    • Versatile: Can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, rock gardens, containers, and water features.
    • Erosion control: Its spreading habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion along stream banks and pond edges.
    • Deer resistant: Generally avoided by deer.
    • Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
    • Provides texture and interest: Adds a unique textural element to gardens with their grass-like foliage.

    Acorus gramineus is a fantastic choice for adding a touch of elegance and texture to moist or shady areas in your garden. Its low-maintenance nature and adaptability make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

    Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' is a fantastic choice for adding a pop of bright color to shady and moist areas of your garden. It is a cultivar of Japanese sweet flag with vibrant golden-yellow foliage. Here is what makes it special:

    Characteristics:

    • Foliage: The most striking feature is its bright, golden-yellow leaves, which retain their color throughout the growing season. The foliage is grass-like, growing in dense, upright clumps. It releases a pleasant, slightly citrusy fragrance when crushed.
    • Flowers: Like the species, 'Ogon' produces insignificant greenish-yellow flowers that are usually hidden within the foliage.
    • Height: Reaches a compact height of 6-12 inches tall.
    • Spread: Spreads slowly by rhizomes to form attractive clumps.
    • Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

    Growing Conditions:

    • Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates, but the foliage may scorch in intense sunlight.
    • Soil: Thrives in moist to wet soils and can even tolerate standing water. It is an excellent choice for bog gardens, water gardens, rain gardens, and areas with poor drainage.
    • Water: Needs consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods.
    • Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

    Benefits:

    • Brightens shady areas: The golden foliage adds a cheerful touch to shady corners of the garden.
    • Versatile: Can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, rock gardens, containers, water features, and as a ground cover in moist areas.
    • Erosion control: Its spreading habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion along stream banks and pond edges.
    • Deer resistant: Generally avoided by deer.
    • Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
    • Provides texture and interest: Adds a unique textural element to gardens with their grass-like foliage.

    Acorus gramineus 'Ogon' is a wonderful choice for adding a touch of sunshine to damp, shady spots in your garden. Its vibrant color, low-maintenance nature, and versatility make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.

    Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus' is a delightful variety of Japanese sweet flag that adds a bright and cheerful touch to shady gardens and water features. Its variegated foliage provides a lovely contrast to the typical green hues of most shade-loving plants.

    Characteristics:

    • Foliage: The standout feature is its variegated leaves, which are striped with creamy white and green. This variegation adds brightness and interest to shady spots. The foliage is grass-like, growing in dense, upright clumps, and retains its color throughout the growing season.
    • Flowers: Like the species, it produces insignificant, greenish-yellow flowers that are often hidden within the foliage.
    • Height: Reaches a height of 6-12 inches.
    • Spread: Spreads slowly by rhizomes, forming attractive clumps.
    • Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

    Growing Conditions:

    • Sunlight: Prefers partial shade to full shade, but can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates.
    • Soil: Thrives in moist to wet soils and even tolerates standing water. It is an excellent choice for bog gardens, water gardens, and areas with poor drainage.
    • Water: Needs consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods.
    • Maintenance: Very low-maintenance. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor.

    Benefits:

    • Brightens shady areas: The variegated foliage adds a much-needed splash of brightness to shady gardens.
    • Versatile: Can be used in a variety of settings, including borders, rock gardens, containers, and water features.
    • Erosion control: Its spreading habit helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion along stream banks and pond edges.
    • Deer resistant: Generally avoided by deer.
    • Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
    • Provides texture and interest: Adds a unique textural element to gardens with their grass-like foliage.

    Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus' is a fantastic choice for adding a touch of brightness and texture to moist or shady areas in your garden. Its low-maintenance nature, attractive foliage, and adaptability make it a popular choice for gardeners of all levels.