Carex flacca 'Blue Zinger'

Blue Zinger Sedge

Slightly larger, more upright, and more clump-forming than the species, Blue Zinger Sedge adapts to varied soil conditions and is drought tolerant once established. Carex flacca ‘Blue Zinger’ holds its blue coloring through the winter in milder climates and works well in sweeps as a clumping groundcover. Blue Zinger Sedge is particularly attractive contrasted with smooth stones or pebbles. The narrow foliage adds vigorous color and fine texture to the garden. For a tidy appearance, cut back foliage in early spring before new growth appears. C. flacca was previously called C. glauca. ‘Blue Zinger’ makes a great substitute for Blue Sheep’s Fescue.

The species, C. flacca, grows naturally on the calcareous, sandy, and moist soils of Europe and Northern Africa. In some areas of the Northeast U.S. and Eastern Canada, it has been found outside managed landscapes. If you have concerns about this sedge, we suggest using alternatives we grow such as Carex flaccosperma or Carex laxiculmis ‘Hobb’ Bunny Blue®. Both have wide blue foliage and a clumping habit; both will spread slowly from seed. Carex pensylvanica is another good alternative, with narrow, green foliage and rhizomatous spread to form a lush carpet.