Silver-striped Sweet Flag This perennial is ideal for planting in wet ground round, or in an inch or two of water in, ponds. Acorus calamus Variegatus is a deciduous, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial, with an upright habit. The spear-shaped leaves are mid-green, striped along their length with creamy-white. Rather insignificant brown flower-spikes are borne on upright stems in summer – it’s the foliage that makes this plant stand out. Cut back flower-stems after flowering to prevent the plant’s energy going into seeds. Divide the rhizomes in spring every few years to prevent congestion. Position: Full sun or partial shadePlanting depth: Any poorly drained clay, sand or loam to an inch below water levelGrowth rate: ModerateSeason of Interest: The leaves are beautiful; insignificant brown flower-spikes in summerHardiness: Extremely hardySize: 39” (1m) Spread: 20” (50cm) in 5-10 years Aquatic pot and compost variations Aquatic plants come in a variety of pot and compost variations that have different benefits for planting and growing. Mesh Pot (Aquatic Compost)Pot can be removed and plant can be planted directly into soil or margins above or below the water line. Pot and plant can also be placed directly into water to be container grown, but will still need repotting in time. Pot (Aquatic Compost)Pot must be removed and plant should be planted directly into soil or margins above or below the water line. Pot (Regular Compost)Pot must be removed and plant should be planted directly into soil or margins above the water line. Cannot be planted directly into soil below the water line. Photo by Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz