Variegated sweet flag is a deciduous, aquatic perennial with 5-foot-long bright green leaves with creamy, longitudinal stripes. Its flowers are insignificant, but its leaves are aromatic and resemble the foliage of an iris. Sweet flag makes a striking statement at the shallow end of a pool, in a bog garden, or in a marshy woodland area.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsVariegated, aromatic leaves to 5 feet long. Great for a wet area.
CareNeeds to grow in water less than 9 inches deep or in very moist soil. Full sun. Plant in containers to control spread if desired.
PropagationDivide every three or four years, at the beginning of the growing season. Pot up and plant once it is established.
ProblemsRust, fungal leaf spots, wet root rot, dry root rot.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Rain Bird PATIOKIT Drip Irrigation Patio Watering Kit
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Hunter Industries MP-1000-90 Hunter Nozzle
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Acorus
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 10, 11
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Characteristics : Fragrant Foliage, Showy Foliage
- Light : Full Sun
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Bloom Time : Summer
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
- Moisture : Wet
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.