Thinking of adding some blue flax flowers to your garden? Blue Flax, also known as Linum Perenne, can be useful for a variety of different purposes.When one thinks of flax plants, commercial flax fields typically come to mind. While its hold in the commercial world has somewhat died down, other plants in the flax genus have found their way into home gardens. With striking flowers and strong but delicate-looking stems, it’s easy to understand why they have become increasingly popular. The flowers only last a day, but the plants bloom throughout the flowering season.
Plants in the flax genus (Linum) offer slightly different characteristics that suit many gardeners’ needs. Most have blue flowers that are beautiful in color, with the most common ornamental type being Linum Perenne, commonly called Blue Flax or perennial flax. Other varieties sport violet, white, and even deep red flowers, allowing gardeners to explore different color options best suited to their style.
Part of this plant’s allure is its easy-going nature. Flax prefers plenty of light, but it can tolerate some shade. Other than that, it needs little water and the occasional pruning for aesthetic appeal. Its self-seeding nature allows it to return each year with its fleeting blooms.
Perennial flax suits seasoned green thumbs, laid-back gardeners, and newbies alike. Its small blooms add a touch of wildflower paradise whether planted in masses or small groups. Flax has a long recorded history, specifically in the textile industry. This European native has been used to make linen and rope for more than 30,000 years. It was first domesticated about 9,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent region of the Middle East. 5,000 years ago, the use of this plant spread to Germany, Switzerland, and Asia.
Flax was extensively cultivated in ancient Egypt, where it was used to make linen for priests and to embalm mummies. As a symbol of purity in ancient culture, it was also commonly painted on temple walls. Trade of flax linen continued throughout the ages, eventually making its way to Rome. There, it was primarily used for Roman ship sails.
The later decline of the Roman empire also meant the decline of flax production. However, flax’s importance made a resurgence in the new millennium when the health of linseed oil came to light, along with the hygiene of flax linen.
Flax eventually made its way to North America through colonial trade routes. As a crop, flax flourished, until the rise of cotton in the early 20th century. The use of flax as a commercial crop has since declined due to the production of synthetic fibers.
Recently, there has been a steady increase in the uses and needs of flax due to an increase in demand for natural fibers. Flaxseed health benefits, thanks to their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, have also played an important part in the resurgence. Flax’s popularity as a garden filler stems from its striking yet fleeting blue flowers and semi-evergreen nature. Their strong stems look surprisingly delicate with clumps of blue-green leaves, creating an elegant look in garden landscapes.
The sought-after blue flowers perched on top of stems resemble small saucers. The flowers only bloom for a day, but perennial flax continues to flower for more than two months, sometimes longer if planted in the correct conditions.
While it is not considered an invasive plant, it does spread easily in the right conditions. It is a great companion for many plants but coexists best with other drought-tolerant plants like lavender. Perennial flax increases the biodiversity of your garden by attracting several beneficial pollinating insects. Adding to its allure is the plant’s drought and deer tolerance as well as its low-maintenance nature. There are two ways to propagate flax – from seed or cuttings. Both are common methods but propagating through, cuttings are easiest. Let’s take a look at both methods, and what you can expect when you utilize either.