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Linum strictum

Linum strictum · Linaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant linum strictum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Linaceae
Type
Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
Adult height
40 to 60 cm
Flowering
June to August, blue or pink flowers
Foliage
Deciduous, fine and linear
Hardiness
Hardy to -10 °C
Origin
Mediterranean and Near East regions
Growth
Fast

Care

Light exposure

Upright flax prefers a sunny location with full south-facing exposure, requiring a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This Mediterranean plant dislikes shade and develops poorly in it. Place it in a well-exposed area, away from structures that might deprive it of light.

Soil and planting

Choose light, well-draining soil that is slightly poor to neutral. Upright flax tolerates excess moisture and heavy soils poorly: add sand or gravel if needed. Soil that is too rich promotes abundant foliage at the expense of flowering. Since rooting is shallow, loosen the soil at the surface.

Watering

Water moderately and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, this plant is relatively drought-tolerant. Avoid stagnant moisture at all costs, as it promotes root rot. During very dry periods, weekly watering is sufficient.

Fertilizing

Upright flax doesn't require regular fertilizer: moderately fertile soil is enough. A balanced fertilizer application in spring before flowering can encourage better flower production. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote disorderly vegetative growth.

Pruning and maintenance

Pinch young plants to promote a compact, branched shape. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. After flowering, leave the plant standing to dry if you want to harvest seeds; otherwise, remove the entire plant at the end of the season. Little maintenance is needed beyond these basic steps.

Diseases and pests

Upright flax is generally robust. Watch for rust or rot if humidity is excessive. Pests are rare, but young aphids may occasionally colonize the stems. Improving air circulation and maintaining dry soil considerably reduce health risks.

Did you know?

The genus Linum includes common flax (Linum usitatissimum), cultivated for over 5000 years for its textile fibers. Upright flax, more ornamental, shares this same prestigious botanical family. Its tiny seeds contain mucilages that were long used in traditional medicine for their soothing properties.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.