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

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