Slender-leaved Flax

linum tenuifolium

Also known as: ["Tender-leaved Flax","Fine-leaved Flax"]

Family: Linaceae Genus: Linum Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, herbaceous perennial with delicate, narrow leaves and small, bright yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or overgrown stems.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.

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-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Use cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.

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

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadhead spent flowers; trim back to just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain compact form.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Clean tools; remove dead flowers; trim leggy stems; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

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

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use row covers for garden plants.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch or wilt; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Linum tenuifolium is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Linum tenuifolium can be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Linum tenuifolium is commonly associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Linum tenuifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts on felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Linum tenuifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts on canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Linum tenuifolium 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 human contact or ingestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Linum tenuifolium be watered?

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

Q: Does Linum tenuifolium attract pollinators?

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

Q: Is Linum tenuifolium suitable for container gardening?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers but requires well-draining soil.

Quick Reference
Family: Linaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","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

Alpine Flax
View
Sea Flax
View
Fairy Flax
View
Wild Flax
View