Genus: Acorus 

Common Names: sweet flag, calamus, chang-pu

A genus of four accepted species  often found in wetland or riparian habitats. A. calamus, A. gramineus, and A. verus are used for various ceremonial, cultural, edible, medicinal, and ornamental purposes in Chinese culture. Acorus species are also widely cultivated as ornamentals and A. gramineus is particularly popular for use in bonsai.

Distribution: North & East Asia, Eurasia, North America

Acorus calamus 'Variegatus'

Common name(s):  variegated sweet flag

Description: perennial; aromatic, variegated foliage held stiffly upright on slowly spreading rhizomes. 

Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.

Position: partial shade and consistently moist soil

Uses: ornamental

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Acorus gramineus 'Licorice'

Common name(s): licorice sweet flag

Description: perennial; extremely aromatic grass-like foliage that emits a scent reminiscent of sweet licorice when brushed. 

Height: to 10 in. Spread: to 3 ft.

Position: partial shade and consistently moist soil, or as a houseplant.

Uses: ornamental, bonsai, culinary, medicine

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus'

Common name(s):  grassy-leaved sweet flag

Description: perennial; aromatic, grass-like foliage with stark white and green variegated leaf blades. Spreads slowly by rhizome.

Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 15 in.

Position: partial shade and consistently moist soil

Uses: ornamental, bonsai

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below