A pleasantly aromatic perennial with a thick much-branched rhizome, it has similar-shaped leaves to the irises, although is not botanically related to them. The flower head is a spadix, emerging from the side of the leaf, but it is not usually fertile in Europe and cool northern climates, owing to lack of appropriate insects for pollination.
History and traditions
The first specimens to reach Europe were imported from Asia by the botanical garden in Vienna in the 16th century. Calamus, which means “reed” in Greek, then became popular as a scented strewing herb. Cardinal Wolsey used it extensively for this purpose in Hampton Court Palace. This was yet another example of his extravagance in the eyes of his contemporaries, due to its comparative rarity at the time calamus was grown only on the Norfolk Broads some distance away. It was also one of the ingredients in Moses’s instructions to make “an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary” as a holy anointing oil (Exodus 30:25).
Related species
A gramineus, native to the Far East, is a miniature species, used in Chinese medicine. Its compact size makes it suitable for growing in ornamental ponds.
Habitat/distribution
A calamus (above) is indigenous to central Asia and Eastern Europe, and is now widespread in marshy areas and by shallow waterways of northern temperate zones.
Growth
Vigorous and easy to propagate, it must have moist soil and plenty of water. Grows best by water margins. Propagate in spring or autumn by cutting rhizomes in small pieces, each with 2-3 buds, and planting in muddy ground.
Uses
Medicinal
Calamus can be taken internally, as an infusion for digestive problems and to dispel intestinal worms. It is slightly sedative to the central nervous system and is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine following strokes, and also for bronchial complaints. Externally it is used as an alcohol rub for aching muscles.
Aromatic
The essential oil, separated by steam distillation, is a perfumery ingredient. Herbalists of old called it “calamus aromaticus”, and the ground root was added to pot-pours, scented sachets, tooth and hair powders.
Household
In Asia it is sometimes used as an insecticide powder to deter ants.
