Juncus inflexus 'Afro' (Blue Medusa Rush) - This rush has powdery blue-green cylindrical stems that twist and spiral to 12-18 inches tall and bear tiny brown flowers in cymes near the tips. It spreads about 2 feet wide. It is like the more common Juncus effusus 'Spiralis' but the bluer stems are much thicker and the plant overall is more robust - it also reportedly tolerates drier conditions.
Plant in moist soils or shallow water (to 3" deep) in full sun or light shade. It is hardy to 0 degrees F or less. Some gardeners in colder climates report that cooler climates make for bluer plants. It is great for the water's edge, in a border or a container. This interesting plant, likened to a bad hair day plant, can spark a conversation in any garden. We grew Juncus effusus 'Spiralis' from 1993 until 2002 and then switched to this variety, which we grew until 2007.
This information about Juncus inflexus 'Afro' displayed is based on research conducted in our horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We also will relate observations made about it as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens we have visited, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments that we receive from others and we welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share any cultural information that would aid others in growing it.
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