Carex flacca - Blue Sedge

aka Carex glauca

This tough sedge can grow in very diverse habitats. It is often found in full sun with prairie grasses but will do well in the shade of large trees. Blue Sedge combines beautifully with the tiny spring blossoms of Scilla or the more robust foliage of Luzula sylvatica.

Suitable for rock gardens and excellent as a ground cover, when given ample water.

If you want it to spread quickly (such as for erosion control on shorebanks), cutting it back by three quarters will force lateral shoots to come up. This can be done 3 to 4 times during the growing season.

Carex flacca is a widely variable plant in color and form.

Description: cool season; evergreen in warm climates; slow spreader
Foliage - blue-grey; narrow blade width; 15-30 cm (6-12") tall
Flowers - June through July; 30-40 cm (12-16") in height

Ideal conditions: full sun to light shade; moist to dry soil

Coldest zone: 4, possibly colder (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Season of interest: evergreen

Drought tolerance rating: 2 (water to root depth once every 2 weeks); further info

Native to: grasslands, sand dunes and marshes of Europe, North Africa and is naturalized in eastern North America.

Recommended spacing between plants: 20-45 cm (8-18") why such a difference?

Pronunciation: Carex (KAIR-ex) flacca (FLAH-ca)

More ornamental grasses

Compare Carex flacca to our other grasses in this handy chart.