Luzula nivalis is classified under the section Thyrsanochlamydeae of the subgenus Luzula [REF].
The exact taxonomy of Luzula nivalis is a little confusing due to confusions over the naming of the taxon; the name L. arctica has frequently[REF] (though less occasionally in recent years) been applied this taxon, or it has been regarded as a separate species altogether [REF].