SafePlants

Acorus calamus (Sweet Flag, Calamus)

Acorus calamus, commonly known as Sweet Flag or Calamus, is a tall perennial wetland plant with a rich history of traditional uses.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This plant has sharp edges.
• Modern misuse of the root oil has given rise to concerns over its use.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acorus calamus
• Common Names: Sweet Flag, Calamus, Sweet Cane
• Family: Acoraceae
• Genus: Acorus

Distribution and Habitat

• Acorus calamus is found in wetland environments.
• It is a semi-aquatic plant that grows in marshes and on muddy banks of streams.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a perennial plant, growing to approximately 1 meter (3ft 3in) in height and width at a medium rate.

Traditional and Historical Uses

• Calamus has been used in traditional medicine since ancient times.
• Historically, the rhizomes were grown extensively in the East and imported from India.
• The aromatic rhizome has been used for medicinal purposes and in perfumery.
• It has a reputation as an aphrodisiac.
• Ancient yogis and seers revered this herb and used it in meditation.

Ecological Role

• Mentioned as flishing in wet situations, which suggests it can thrive in these environments.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• A. americanus is morphologically distinct from triploid A. calamus but also from diploid and tetraploid A. calamus populations occurring in Asia.

Quirky Facts

• Sweet cane, a synonym for calamus, is named as an ingredient in the Biblical anointing oil as well as in oil of Abramelin.
• Calamus has been suggested as an ingredient in Absinthe and Dr. Pepper.

Further Resources

• WebMD
• Thesaurus.com