
Japanese Sweet Flag
Acorus gramineus 'Oborozuki'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Requires consistently moist soil
Humidity
Prefers humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Acorus gramineus 'Oborozuki' is a compact, grass-like perennial with slender, arching foliage and small, spike-like yellow-green flowers that create a delicate, ornamental appearance. This cultivar is distinguished by its bright, fan-like sprays of golden-yellow foliage striped with green, which are brightest in spring.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes into moist soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring or fall
- Mist foliage during dry spells for best appearance
- Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed
Pro Tip
Plant in moist, shaded areas for best growth and appearance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist π±
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Divide every few years for vigorous growth
Don't
- Avoid dry, well-drained soils β
- Donβt expose to full sun in hot climates
- Refrain from over-fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Japanese Sweet Flag questions
What zones can Japanese Sweet Flag grow in?
Japanese Sweet Flag is hardy in USDA Zones 5β9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Japanese Sweet Flag deer resistant?
Yes β Japanese Sweet Flag is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Japanese Sweet Flag bloom?
Japanese Sweet Flag typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Japanese Sweet Flag need full sun?
Japanese Sweet Flag does best in part shade.
More Acorus to compare

Golden Japanese Sweet Flag
Acorus gramineus 'Wogon'

Variegated Sweet Flag
Acorus calamus 'Golden Variegated'

Licorice Japanese Sweet Flag
Acorus gramineus 'Licorice'

Variegated Japanese Sweet Flag
Acorus gramineus 'Hakuro Nishiki'

Dwarf Sweet Flag
Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus'

Variegated Sweet Flag
Acorus calamus 'Variegatus'
