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Description
Acorus Calamus Variegatus, also known as Variegated Sweet Flag, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Acoraceae family. It is a cultivar of Acorus Calamus, which is native to Asia, Europe, and North America. The plant has long, narrow leaves that are variegated with green and white stripes. It grows up to 24 inches (60 cm) tall and spreads up to 36 inches (90 cm) wide. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color and bloom in late spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Acorales |
| Family | Acoraceae |
| Genus | Acorus |
Appearance
Variegated Sweet Flag has long, narrow leaves that are variegated with green and white stripes. The leaves grow up to 36 inches (90 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. The plant grows up to 24 inches (60 cm) tall and spreads up to 36 inches (90 cm) wide. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color and bloom in late spring. The plant has a pleasant, sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Water: Acorus Calamus Variegatus prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it should not be over-watered, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: The plant grows best in rich, moist soil that is well-drained.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full sun, but its leaves may scorch in hot, dry weather.
Hardiness Zones: Acorus Calamus Variegatus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acorus Calamus Variegatus is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot.
Habitat
Acorus Calamus Variegatus is a wetland plant that grows in marshes, swamps, and along stream banks. It is native to Asia and Europe, but it has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acorus Calamus Variegatus toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Acorus Calamus Variegatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with ample moisture.
Q: Does Acorus Calamus Variegatus attract wildlife?
A: The plant does not produce nectar or fruit, so it does not attract many pollinators or wildlife.
Q: How often should Acorus Calamus Variegatus be repotted?
A: The plant does not need to be repotted frequently. It can be divided every few years to maintain its health and vigor.
Related Plants
- Acorus Calamus
- Acorus Gramineus
- Acorus Americanus
- Acorus Calamus Angustatus
References
- “Acorus Calamus Variegatus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 26, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e859.
- “Acorus Calamus Variegatus.” PlantFiles. Accessed October 26, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56054/.
- “Acorus Calamus Variegatus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 26, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4877/Acorus-calamus-Variegatus/Details.
