Carex flacca Blue Zinger (Blue Sedge)
Prized for its intense blue foliage, Carex flacca ‘Blue Zinger’ (Blue Sedge) is a robust, evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial sedge forming a slowly spreading clump of attractive, grass-like, glaucous-blue leaves. In late spring or early summer, it bears insignificant cream-colored flower spikes among the foliage. ‘Blue Zinger’ is reported to be taller than the species and to have lighter blue foliage color. L
Prized for its intense blue foliage, Carex flacca 'Blue Zinger' (Blue Sedge) is a robust, evergreen or semi-evergreen perennial sedge forming a slowly spreading clump of attractive, grass-like, glaucous-blue leaves. In late spring or early summer, it bears insignificant cream-colored flower spikes among the foliage. 'Blue Zinger’ is reported to be taller than the species and to have lighter blue foliage color. Low maintenance, Blue Sedge is a great choice for borders or rock gardens or as a ground cover. Evergreen in warm winter climates.
- Grows up to 12-18 in. tall and wide (30-45 cm).
- This plant will slowly spread from underground rhizomes to form small patches.
- Performs best in full sun or part shade in moist but well-drained soils. The best foliage color is obtained in full sun. Adaptable to a wide range of soils, including wet shaded sites. Can grow in standing water no deeper than 2 in. (5 cm). Drought tolerant once established.
- Perfect plant for borders, woodland gardens, rock gardens, rain gardens, near ponds and streams, and as a ground cover.
- Generally disease and pest free. Keep an eye out for aphids. Carex flacca is fairly unpalatable to deer.
- Cut foliage to the ground and remove it in late winter in cold winter climates
- Propagate by division in mid-spring to early summer.
- Carex flacca is native to the Mediterranean area.
Requirements
Hardiness | 5 – 9 |
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Climate Zones | 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 |
Plant Type | Ornamental Grasses |
Plant Family | Carex – Sedges |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
Height | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 18″ (45cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Semi-Evergreen |
Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Wet Soil |
Garden Uses | Ground Covers, Rain Gardens |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage |