Acorus gramineus 'Ogon'
Common name: Golden sweet flag, golden Japanese sweet flag, or Japanese rush (a.k.a. 'Wogon').
Zone: 5 to 10,
may not be winter hardy in zone 5, and evergreen in warm zones.
Sun to part shade, aquatic or wetland perennial.
Mature size: 6 to 12 inches tall, with 1/4 inch wide blade.
Narrow, grass-like, dwarf plant has yellow and chartreuse variegated leaf blades, that appear golden yellow. Tiny, densely-packed, greenish-yellow flowers emerge in late spring to early summer. Iris-like tufts will spread to form a dense ground cover, but is not invasive.
Easily grown in average, moist soil, and will thrive in moderately moist conditions, or as a garden pond water plant. In hot summer climates, without afternoon shade or filtered sun, leaf tips may scorch if allowed to dry out. A regular watering schedule during the first growing season will help establish root system. Divide every 2 to 3 years in early spring.
Common name is sweet flag because of the aromatic, grass or iris-like foliage. When walked upon, it releases a fragrance reminiscent of cinnamon.
Great for containers, edging or as a ground cover, and ideal in water gardens, along streams or ponds, or anywhere soil moisture requirements can be met. Maintenance free and deer resistant.