Overview
Linum usitatissimum is a annual in the genus Linum, part of the Linaceae family. It typically grows around 0.7 m tall. Linum usitatissimum grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and 6.0-7.5 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include fiber production, edible seeds and ornamental. It is native to Eurasia.
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 usitatissimum (family Linaceae) is an annual native to Eurasia cultivated for fibre production, edible seed and occasional ornamental use. Its compact habit—about 0.7 m high—and summer flowering make it suitable where a single-season crop or feature is required. Flowering occurs from June to August. Give it a sunny, well-drained site on sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; the plant prefers the soil to remain moist but not waterlogged. Exposure should be full sun. Its UK hardiness rating is H7, meaning it tolerates the coldest outdoor conditions commonly encountered in the British Isles and can be left in the ground through winter in exposed sites. Common flax is most often grown in allotments, dedicated fibre or seed beds and in sunny, open areas of larger gardens where its use is practical rather than purely decorative. When planning a plot for fibre or seed production, allow space for stands approximately 0.7 m tall and bear in mind the defined June–August flowering window when scheduling rotations or companion plantings.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Linum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Linum usitatissimum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual
- Height
- 0.7 m
- Suggested uses
- Fiber production, Edible seeds, Ornamental
- Native to
- Eurasia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Linum usitatissimum
- Cultivation
- Sow seeds directly in well-prepared soil in spring. Requires full sun and consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging.
- Propagation
- Seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Linum usitatissimum?
Sow seeds directly in well-prepared soil in spring. Requires full sun and consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Linum usitatissimum?
Linum usitatissimum prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Linum usitatissimum need?
Linum usitatissimum grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers 6.0-7.5 soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How big does Linum usitatissimum grow?
Linum usitatissimum reaches a height of 0.7 m.
Is Linum usitatissimum hardy in the UK?
Linum usitatissimum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Linum usitatissimum?
Seed.
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