Overview
Linum narbonnense is a perennial in the genus Linum, part of the Linaceae family. Linum narbonnense grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and rock gardens. It is native to Portugal Continental.
About
Linum narbonnense is a perennial flax that bears clear blue flowers through the summer. It originates from continental Portugal and belongs to the Linaceae family. Plants suit a sunny, sheltered spot in free‑draining soil and prefer moderate moisture. Flowering occurs from June to August.
About the genus
Linum (flax) is a genus of approximately 200 species in the flowering plant family Linaceae. They are native to temperate and subtropical regions of the world. The genus includes the common flax, the bast fibre of which is used to produce linen and the seeds to produce linseed oil.
Wikipedia contributors, "Linum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Linum
In the garden
Linum narbonnense is a perennial member of the Linaceae, native to continental Portugal. As a garden perennial it produces blue flowers in the UK summer, with blooms reliably appearing from June to August. The species sits within the Linum genus and is commonly referred to as flax. Position the plant in full sun on well‑drained soil and avoid heavy, waterlogged ground; it prefers moderate soil moisture and benefits from a sheltered aspect to protect the flowering stems. Its UK hardiness is H5 (hardy), so it tolerates ordinary winter conditions where drainage is good and the site is not exposed to persistent cold winds. These cultural preferences mean the plant establishes best where water does not accumulate at the roots and where it receives strong summer light. Use Linum narbonnense in mixed borders where its summer blue blooms can provide a clear colour run, or plant into rock gardens and gravel areas where drainage and shelter can be controlled. It pairs well with drought‑tolerant perennials that share a preference for sun and free‑draining soil. The flowering period, June to August, is a reliable time for adding summer colour from slender, upright stems.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Linum
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil type
- well-drained
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Linum narbonnense size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens
- Native to
- Portugal Continental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Linum narbonnense
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Linum narbonnense?
Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Linum narbonnense?
Linum narbonnense prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Linum narbonnense need?
Linum narbonnense grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Linum narbonnense?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape.
Is Linum narbonnense hardy in the UK?
Linum narbonnense has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Linum narbonnense?
Seed, division.