Linum catharticum (fairy flax) — Bushy

Overview

Linum catharticum is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Linum, part of the Linaceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Linum catharticum 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 catharticum, also known as purging flax, or fairy flax, is an herbaceous flowering plant in the family Linaceae, native to Great Britain, Iceland, central Europe and Western Asia. It is an annual plant and blooms in July and August. It is a known host of the pathogenic fungus flax rust (Melampsora lini). In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, rock garden, gravel garden and flower borders and beds. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing, east-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Linum catharticum

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 catharticum 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 catharticum

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 catharticum?

Linum catharticum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Linum catharticum need?

Linum catharticum 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.