Fairy Flax
linum catharticum
Also known as: ["White Flax","Gutweed"]
Overview
A delicate annual plant with small white flowers and narrow leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Genus: | Linum |
| Botanical Name: | Linum catharticum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, meadows, or open sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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; mimics its natural meadow habitat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning which can stress the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with unfiltered light; avoid deep shade which can weaken growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure light exposure is consistent.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool conditions; protect from frost and extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to prevent burning; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth typically appears within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for successful rooting; avoid overwatering cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim lightly to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers promptly.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or weak stems; shape lightly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow growth; frost can be lethal to this delicate plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a light cover; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but carefully to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLinum catharticum is non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLinum catharticum is non-toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLinum catharticum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has no significant toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in small quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Linum catharticum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Linum catharticum grow?
A: It is an annual plant that prefers well-drained, sandy soils and full sun.
Q: Does Linum catharticum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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