Rush ‘Blue Arrows’

Rush ‘Blue Arrows’
A Bold Accent with a Gentle Heart

At Wright’s Market—nestled in our 1938 cottage where every creaking floorboard tells a story and the garden is as much a gathering place as the kitchen—we believe every plant should bring both beauty and meaning. Rush ‘Blue Arrows’ is one of those quiet statement-makers: striking, upright, and steady, with a soft blue-green hue that feels right at home in a Southern landscape.

It’s bold enough to turn heads, but humble enough to blend in—and we think that’s a beautiful thing.

A Glimpse into History:
Rushes (Juncus species) have been growing along streambanks, lakesides, and wet meadows for centuries—used historically for basket weaving, thatching, and even candle wicks. Juncus inflexus (the species behind ‘Blue Arrows’) is native to Europe and Western Asia but has long naturalized in North America, especially in moist, warm climates.

The cultivar ‘Blue Arrows’ was bred for its refined, upright habit and soft blue tones. It’s a modern variety with old-world roots—just like many things we love around here.

Where It Grows Best:
‘Blue Arrows’ Rush thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers moist to wet soils—making it perfect for rain gardens, water features, low-lying areas, and containers that won’t dry out. It’s one of the few ornamental grasses (well, grass-like perennials) that actually loves wet feet, though it can tolerate average garden soil if watered regularly.

It’s a great option for areas where other plants struggle, adding vertical interest, movement, and texture to soggy corners or sun-drenched borders alike.

What It Means:
In the language of gardens, Rush ‘Blue Arrows’ is a symbol of resilience and purpose—growing straight and true, even where the ground is heavy and the path isn’t always dry. With its upright form and calming blue-green color, it offers a quiet reminder that strength doesn’t have to be loud, and that beauty often grows in the most unexpected places.

It’s the kind of plant that quietly supports the garden—like the steadfast people in our lives who show up, stand tall, and weather any storm.

Blooming Season:
Rushes aren't grown for showy blooms, but they do produce tiny, bronze-colored flowers in late spring to summer. These understated blooms emerge near the tips of the cylindrical stems, adding subtle texture and seasonal interest. But the true appeal lies in the slender, upright blades that hold their shape and color beautifully from spring through fall—and often into winter in Southern climates.

Care Instructions:
True to its name and nature, ‘Blue Arrows’ is easy to care for and needs very little fuss:

• Light: Full sun to part shade

• Soil: Moist to wet soils preferred; tolerates clay and poor drainage

• Water: Keep soil consistently moist—especially in hotter months

• Maintenance: Cut back old stems in late winter to encourage fresh growth. If growing in containers, water often and fertilize lightly in spring.

It’s deer-resistant, tolerates occasional flooding, and thrives in both garden beds and container arrangements—making it a flexible, forgiving addition to your space.

Complimentary Plant Material:
Pair ‘Blue Arrows’ Rush with water-loving companions like Louisiana Iris, Pickerelweed, or Cardinal Flower in wet areas. In drier spots, it contrasts beautifully with Coneflower, Salvia, or Black-Eyed Susan, adding structure and a cool-toned vertical lift. For containers or modern garden designs, it pairs well with Sweet Potato Vine, Coral Bells, or Creeping Jenny to spill gently around its base.

Whether tucked into a rain garden, lining a sunny path, or anchoring a container on your back porch, Rush ‘Blue Arrows’ brings a sense of purpose, poise, and quiet beauty to your southern landscape. Like the best Southern stories, it’s simple, strong, and unforgettable.