Japanese sweet flag - Acorus gramineus (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Japanese sweet flag

Also known as: Variegated Slender Sweet Flag, Grass-leaf sweet flag, Dwarf sedge

Japanese sweet flag is a perennial grass that gives the appearance of flowing water. It grows in marshy wet areas and can live in wet soil or water. It is a great choice for garden water features and can even be grown as a houseplant.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese sweet flag (Acorus gramineus)

Sweet flag and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

20 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, Variegated

Leaf Color

Green

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Japanese sweet flag

Distribution of Japanese sweet flag

Distribution Map

Japanese sweet flag is native to East and Southeast Asia, thriving in a variety of wetlands across the region. This perennial plant has been introduced and cultivated in other parts of the world, adapting to similar habitats beyond its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wet places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese sweet flag, including the following common varieties :

Japanese sweet flag 'Golden Delight'Japanese sweet flag 'Ogon'

Quickly Identify Japanese sweet flag

Linear, shiny leaves, 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) long, dark green with sweet fragrance.

Vibrant red, fleshy berries, marble-sized, creating visual contrast against foliage.

Small lateral flowers on 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) spadix with green to yellow transition.

Moisture-loving perennial with blade-like foliage resembling a grass tuft.

Glossy exterior, juicy red berries post-flowering, a notable sight in mid-spring to early summer.

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Care Guide for Japanese sweet flag

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from wetlands, japanese sweet flag prefers consistently moist soil and high humidity. It requires regular watering every week, while also resilient to brief dryness. As an evergreen plant, japanese sweet flag needs careful moisture management to sustain its foliage throughout the year.

Pruning: Japanese sweet flag has grassy, aromatic leaves and benefits from early spring pruning. Remove damaged leaves and cut back overgrown clumps to enhance growth and ventilation. Clean cuts prevent diseases, and timely pruning supports optimal recovery and vigor for the growing season.

Propagation: Japanese sweet flag is a perennial herb known for its appealing foliage. It thrives in moist soil and is best propagated by division, ensuring root integrity. During repotting, sections with robust roots should be separated and replanted promptly to encourage swift adaptation and growth.

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Images of Japanese sweet flag

Distribution of Japanese sweet flag

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Japanese sweet flag

Care Guide for Japanese sweet flag

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