Linum usitatissimum – Versatile flax plant for garden, cut flowers and fibers

Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as flax, is an annual plant that offers both ornamental value in the garden and industrial applications. This plant is known for its delicate blue flowers, elegant stems, and versatile uses, ranging from textile production to decorative garden planting. With its tall height and airy structure, Linum usitatissimum is ideal for borders, rock gardens, pots, and cut flowers.

Characteristics of Linum usitatissimum

Linum usitatissimum forms upright, graceful stems with thin, linear leaves. The plant produces light blue flowers, often with a yellow center, that appear during the summer. These flowers have a light, airy appearance and attract bees and butterflies, making the plant ecologically valuable.

• Height: 60–100 cm

• Flowering period: June to September

• Leaf: narrow, linear, blue-green

• Flower color: sky blue with yellow heart

• Plant type: annual

Besides its ornamental value, Linum usitatissimum produces fibers traditionally used for linen production, and seeds that yield linseed, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, suitable for consumption and health products.

Cultivation and care

Linum usitatissimum is low-maintenance and easy to grow, ideal for both hobby gardens and large-scale cultivation. Some growing tips:

• Sow: Directly outdoors after the last frost in a well-drained, sunny spot

• Location: full sun for maximum flowering

• Soil: light, well-drained and neutral to slightly alkaline

• Water: moderate watering; drought tolerant once established

• Maintenance: Faded flowers can be removed to maintain a neater appearance; the plant can remain upright due to its sturdy stems

Applications in garden and use

• Borders and rock gardens: airy, sky-blue flowers add softness and movement to borders

• Cut flowers: long, straight stems make Linum usitatissimum suitable for bouquets and arrangements

• Fiber production: the stems are used for linen

• Food and health: seeds (linseed) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein

• Ecological value: attracts bees and butterflies, promotes biodiversity in the garden

Why choose Linum usitatissimum?

• Ornamental value: elegant, sky-blue flowers and airy structure

• Versatile use: suitable for borders, cut flowers, fiber production and seeds

• Low maintenance and sustainable: easy to grow, drought tolerant and upright

• Food source: linseed as a healthy addition to the diet

• Ecologically valuable: attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity

Linum usitatissimum combines ornamental value, functionality, and ecological benefits, making it an indispensable plant for hobby gardens, professional cut flower cultivation, and sustainable production applications. Its sky-blue flowers, sturdy stems, and versatile uses make it a true asset to any garden or cultivation project.