Acorus calamus 'Variegatus' - Variegated Sweet Flag, Pond Marginal Pla

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.