I needed a groundcover for the edge of my driveway that could “withstand” the water that runs off of it and stays consistently wet. I envisioned it being a grass-like groundcover that would contrast well in color and texture with the surrounding plants.
Well, while researching Sweet Flag ‘Oborozuki’ a few years ago, I was immediately sold when I read that it prefers “bog-like” conditions.
I placed the order for a bunch of small plugs with Santa Rosa Gardens and here we are three years later:
Some bits of info on this plant:
- Survives zones 5-9
- Prefers partial sun but also works in full sun if kept consistently moist. Mine has thrived in full sun to date.
- Size is roughly 12″ x 12″
- Deer resistant
- Golden yellow color with green stripes
- Can be divided every 2-3 years which means I’m about ready to do the deed
- Has small, insignificant seedheads that admittedly, I’ve never seen
- The Sweet Flag name comes from the citrus-like smell of the leaves which I can confirm is true
- One final interesting factoid I found on the ‘net – “back in the day” this plant was used in the production of beer and gin. Nice.
This semi-evergreen groundcover holds up well into the winter and anything that gives me winter color here in zone 6B is a huge positive:
A plant with multi-seasonal interest that fits my growing conditions perfectly. Sold!!
So what do you think? Any experience with this one?
John
I love my sweet flag. I don’t think I have the exact same variety as you, mine is variegated. I have mine planted in a boggy spot too, as well as some that is planted right in the rushing, moving water of my stream, in a fabric pot with a dark-leaved Canna. It’s a great plant!
I didn’t know it had a scent when the leaves are crushed…new fact to store. Love the contrast of it with the Itea.
This grass is cute!
Do you have any idea if this grass can tolerate road salt? I hope to plant a whole line of them along a sidewalk at a retirement facility, which needs to be kept very ice free.
I have grown sweet flag for years in my Japanese inspired garden. It is the toughest thing going. This grass started on the banks of a stream and then crept into the water (circulating from my koi pond). It grows in the shade, in full sun, and even in a dryish area under some some pines and Japanese maples.
Originally I bought four plants and over the years divided them into dozens. They are ever so easy to divide. I even put some in containers next to my favorite coleus ‘Sedona’ with its coppery orange shades … awesome! Their fountaining form is graceful and the gold brightens up the greens and browns around it. And to top it off, it is evergreen, smells great, withstands dogs walking on it, and goes on forever.