blue green sedge

Blue sedge (Carex flacca, Cyperaceae) is a grass-like perennial from northern Africa, western Asia, and Europe, reaching under 1 foot tall with arching blue-green leaves 12 to 16 inches long that are distinctly glaucous on the underside. It spreads by lateral shoots that root as the clump expands. Flowering stems carry two male spikes and bloom from June to July.

Blue sedge grows in sun to part shade with moderate to high water needs, hardy in Zones 4 to 9. It tolerates deer browse, drought, erosion, and wet soil, making it versatile for varied site conditions. Its natural habitats include grasslands, moorlands, exposed soil, and upper edges of salt marshes. Maintenance is low. The cultivar 'Blue Zinger' is the primary selection in the trade. No significant pest or disease issues are documented.