Linum tenuifolium
Linum tenuifolium · Linaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant linum tenuifolium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Linaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to July, sky blue flowers
- Mature size
- 30 to 50 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean regions and Central Asia
Care
Sunlight
Narrow-leafed flax requires a sunny location, ideally at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A south or west-facing exposure promotes abundant flowering and a compact shape. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Soil
This plant prefers well-draining, light soil that is rather poor to average. Rocky or sandy soils suit it perfectly. Avoid overly rich or poorly draining soils, which encourage excessive foliage at the expense of flowering.
Watering
Once established, narrow-leafed flax is very drought-tolerant. Water moderately during the growth and flowering period, especially in heat or prolonged dry spells. Reduce watering in autumn and winter to minimize rot risk.
Fertilizer
A moderate application of fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Choose a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid promoting foliage at the expense of flowering. A plant in poor soil doesn't require regular feeding.
Pruning and cutting
Perform cleanup in late winter to remove dry stems and lightly cut back the clump. After flowering, you can pinch young stems to encourage denser branching. This plant is naturally bushy and doesn't require heavy pruning.
Diseases and pests
Narrow-leafed flax is generally robust and seldom affected by disease. In wet or poorly draining soil, watch for root rot. Spider mites can develop in very dry conditions. Good drainage and proper air circulation are usually enough to prevent problems.
Did you know?
Cultivated flax (Linum usitatissimum), a close cousin of narrow-leafed flax, is one of the oldest plants exploited by humanity: its fibers were already transformed into linen fabric in ancient Egypt over 5,000 years ago. The Linum genus fascinates botanists with the ephemeral beauty of its flowers, which bloom for only a few hours, creating a renewed floral display each day from spring through summer.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Fairy flaxLinum catharticum
- FlaxLinum usitatissimum
- Pale flaxLinum bienne
- Linum strictumLinum strictum
- AllseedRadiola linoides
- Linum suffruticosumLinum suffruticosum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.