Linum usitatissimum aka Linseed
Taxonomy
Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as flax or linseed, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Linaceae. It is cultivated as both a food and fiber crop in regions with temperate climates. The plant has small blue flowers and its stems can reach up to 120 centimeters in height for fiber flax and 50 centimeters for curly flax. The latter has strongly branched stems and is often planted in rock gardens where its delicate flowers provide a beautiful contrast against the stones. Flax is also used to make textiles, known as linen, which are traditionally used for bed sheets, underclothes, and table linen. Its oil, linseed oil, is used in traditional medicine. Flax seeds are sown in spring and can also be sown before winter. Perennial flax blooms in its second year. The leaves are simple and narrow with smooth margins, and the flowers are pale blue with broad, spreading petals. The plant species appears to have been domesticated once from the wild species Linum bienne, known as pale flax. However, the plants called "flax" in New Zealand are members of the genus Phormium. Overall, flax is a useful and versatile plant with various applications in both agriculture and medicine.
Common names
Linseed, Flax, Common FlaxHow to care for Linseed
Difficulty
Caring for Linseed is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Linseed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Linseed loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Linseed requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Flax is always in the right place to thrive.
Toxicity
Linseed is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Linseed as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Linseed’s native range is Possibly native to Europe. A rare casual in Britain, the original habitat is obscure.
More info:
Wikipedia
