Acorus americanus

Also called American Sweetflag, Several-Veined Sweetflag

Hardy perennial; swamp or bog plant
Foliage and rhizomes have a sweet citrus scent when bruised or cut
Wheat-like flowers
Great for stabilizing pond edges
Bloom Time: June to July

ZONE:
3

COLOUR:
Brown

HEIGHT:
60-90 cm

SPREAD:
70-90 cm

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Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Grow in a moist to wet soil, in full sun or partial shade. Spreads quickly by rhizomes and works well for retaining soil at the edge of streams and ponds. Can tolerate periods of drought, but suffers in appearance.

Plugs are sold in full flats only.

Additional Notes about Sweet Flag:

Native to Ontario.

Widely confused with the European strain Acorus calamus, it can be easily identified by the distinct ribs on the leaves. Acorus calamus has one midrib and Acorus americanus have several. Unfortunately, A. calamus has naturalized throughout North America.

Acorus americanus was used by Native Americans as a replacement for ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The rhizomes were also used in perfumes.

The seeds provide food for wood ducks, and the leaves are preferred hosts for native beetles. The plant establishes colonies that provide habitat for salamanders, frogs etc.