Narbonne Flax

linum narbonense

Also known as: ["Narbonne Linen","Narbonne Flax"]

Family: Linaceae Genus: Linum Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous perennial with delicate blue flowers and slender stems, native to the Mediterranean region.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Linaceae
Genus: Linum
Botanical Name: Linum narbonense

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in warm weather.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed propagation.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss blend).

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; frost can kill tender parts.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause wilting, or lead to flower bud drop.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Linum narbonense may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Linum narbonense is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced nutrient uptake and plant vitality.

Leaf spots on Linum narbonense may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Linum narbonense if the soil is poorly drained or excessively moist, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Linum narbonense is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for keeping this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Linum narbonense is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for keeping this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Linum narbonense is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Linum narbonense be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does Linum narbonense attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Q: Is Linum narbonense toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Quick Reference
Family: Linaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Flax
View
Strict Flax
View
Sea Flax
View
Sticky Flax
View