Calamus (Acorus) or Japanese reed is a perennial from the aroid family. This plant prefers moist soil. The countries of Asia are considered the place of origin of most species of calamus, but it can be found in many states of the Northern Hemisphere - in swamps and not far from rivers and streams. This habitat makes calamus a desirable candidate for garden ponds, aquariums or terrariums.
The plant is a bunch of thin leaves with stripes of white or light yellow. Its root, oblong and sinuous, does not go deep, but is located horizontally. Closer to summer, yellow-green inflorescences-cobs appear.
The healing properties of swamp calamus have long been known to mankind. With the help of the plant, you can fight stomach diseases, high blood pressure and even hair loss.
Calamus is rarely grown as a home plant, but care is not difficult. A grassy calamus variety, widespread in Japan, is best suited for this. It is distinguished by fleshy erect leaves and a large flattened root.
Calamus care at home
Location and lighting
For a pot with calamus, a slightly illuminated area is suitable, where the direct rays of the sun do not fall. Providing light shading, the east or west side will be optimal.
Temperature
The plant prefers coolness. It will feel best if the degrees do not rise above +22. In winter, the flower will arrange +16 degrees. Drafts are not scary.
Watering mode
The moisture-loving Japanese cane needs abundant watering. The soil must always remain moist. To do this, you can put the pot on a tray of water. Does not need feeding.
Humidity level
The plant does not like dry air and needs spraying. Additionally, it is recommended to surround the container with wet pebbles.
Transfer
Usually, a wider pot is selected as a new container. This is done only in those cases when the plant ceases to fit in the old one. Transplanting is best done in the spring. Clay soil with neutral or weak acidity is selected as a soil for calamus. A mixture of turf, sand and peat is also suitable. Turf can be replaced with river silt.
Calamus propagation
Fruits rarely ripen, so the main method of reproduction of calamus is by dividing the rhizome. Spring is also optimal for this procedure. The rhizome is cut and planted in a new place. Such parts of the roots grow quickly enough.
Diseases and pests
Dry and hot indoor air can lead to the fact that pests - red spider mites - settle on the calamus.
Low humidity and lack of watering can adversely affect reed leaves. If the foliage begins to dry or become black or brown, the affected parts are removed, and then the plant is thoroughly watered.
