Sticky Flax
linum viscosum
Also known as: ["Sticky Flax"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, characterized by its sticky stems and blue flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Genus: | Linum |
| Botanical Name: | Linum viscosum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
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 gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering to encourage blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
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; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
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 before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLinum viscosum is not considered toxic to cats. This plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would be harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLinum viscosum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would cause harm to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLinum viscosum is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Linum viscosum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Linum viscosum be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Linum viscosum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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