Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus', known as variegated Japanese sweet flag, forms compact fans of narrow, arching, scented leaves. The RHS describes them as green with creamy-yellow edges. It is grown for its leaves, as the flowers are insignificant.

Variegated sweet flag at a glance

Botanical name Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus'
Common name Variegated Japanese sweet flag
Plant type Compact, semi-evergreen, grass-like perennial
Height and spread About 25–30 cm tall, about 35 cm wide
Flowers Insignificant; grown for its leaves
Position Full sun, sheltered
Soil Wet or very moist, fertile soil; any pH
Pond depth 0–5 cm of water
Hardiness RHS H6 – hardy in a very cold winter (-20 to -15°C)
Native to East Asia (not UK native)

Where to plant it

  • The shallow edge of a pond, up to 5 cm deep
  • The edges of small ponds, where its compact size suits
  • Bog gardens and wet borders in sun

How to plant and care for it

Plant from spring to late summer in a sunny, sheltered spot. Divide it every few years to stop clumps becoming congested. The RHS notes it can be short-lived where the water stays above 22°C for long periods.

Is it poisonous?

Not confirmed for this plant, but its relative Acorus calamus contains a toxic compound. Do not eat it and keep pets from chewing it.

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 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 5cm

Light: Full sun

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 20 - 40cm tall, 30 - 50cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

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