A plant with long, sword-like leaves, typically an iris or similar plant whose roots are used for various purposes, particularly in traditional medicine or crafts.
From 'flag' (the plant, from Old Norse or Scandinavian origin, referring to the iris plant with flat leaves) plus 'root' (from Old English 'rōt'). The compound describes the root structure of the flag plant.
Flagroot (Acorus calamus) was a crucial medieval plant—its aromatic roots were used to scent and disinfect rooms, scattered on floors during plagues, and dried for perfume, making it valuable enough to trade internationally!
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