noun
fragrant iris; sweet flag; orris
Refers to a fragrant species of iris, often Iris ensata or related varieties, valued for its scent. The term may also be used for sweet flag (Acorus calamus) or orris root in botanical contexts.
庭に匂い菖蒲が咲いている。
Fragrant irises are blooming in the garden.
匂い菖蒲の根は香料に使われる。
The root of the sweet flag is used in perfumery.
菖蒲 is the general term for iris or sweet flag, while 匂い菖蒲 specifically emphasizes the fragrant variety.
Compound of 匂い (nioi, 'fragrance') and 菖蒲 (shōbu, 'iris' or 'sweet flag'), literally 'fragrant iris'.