Three-stamened Flax

linum trigynum

Also known as: ["Three-stamened Flax","Wild Flax"]

Family: Linaceae Genus: Linum Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant in the Linaceae family, known for its slender stems and small, blue flowers.

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 trigynum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
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 midday sun in summer; 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-draining, sandy loam

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

Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid overwatering; test soil pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

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

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.

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, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

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 growth and health.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new 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 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 feels 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 or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Linum trigynum can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Linum trigynum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Linum trigynum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Similar to dogs, cats may experience mild toxicity if they ingest the seeds of Linum trigynum due to the presence of linamarin. The effects are typically limited to gastrointestinal distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent access to seeds; seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The seeds of Linum trigynum contain linamarin, which can release small amounts of cyanide when ingested. While toxicity is generally low, dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume a significant amount of seeds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep seeds out of reach of pets; monitor for symptoms if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Linum trigynum, commonly known as narrow-leaved flax, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of linamarin, a cyanogenic glycoside.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten in large quantities

Consume only in moderation; avoid ingestion of seeds in large amounts.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Linum trigynum toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Linum trigynum be watered?

A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially once established.

Q: Does Linum trigynum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

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)"]
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