Overview
Linum capitatum is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Linum, part of the Linaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Linum capitatum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, rock garden, gravel garden and flower borders and beds.
About
Linum capitatum is a bushy annual or biennial cultivar within the Linum genus, known for its semi-evergreen foliage. This plant thrives in full sun and is suitable for south, east, or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, across a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is ideal for cottage gardens, patios, rock or gravel gardens, and flower borders. Linum capitatum is typically planted after the last frost and can be propagated by seed or stem-tip cuttings, with interest extending into winter.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Linum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Linum capitatum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Semi-evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Gravel garden, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Linum capitatum
- Propagation
- Seed, Stem-tip cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Slugs and snails, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Linum capitatum?
Linum capitatum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Linum capitatum need?
Linum capitatum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Linum capitatum hardy in the UK?
Linum capitatum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Linum capitatum?
Seed, Stem-tip cuttings.
More in the Linum genus
- Linum catharticumfairy flax
- Linum dolomiticum
- Linum flavumCrimean flax
- Linum monogynumNew Zealand native flax
- Linum narbonense 'Gentianoides'
- Linum nodiflorum
- Linum perenneperennial flax
- Linum rubrum
