Lewis flax
linum lewisii
Also known as: ["Lewis' flax","Prairie flax"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its delicate blue flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Genus: | Linum |
| Botanical Name: | Linum lewisii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- 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 soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; 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 to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid compacting soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights and can withstand light frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
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; protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or vermiculite.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on post-flowering for reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; water plant before repotting; handle roots carefully.
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 away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
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, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during freezes; use frost cloth for outdoor plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLinum lewisii is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is safe for feline contact and ingestion, with no known adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLinum lewisii is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a significant risk of poisoning if ingested or touched by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLinum lewisii, commonly known as Lewis flax, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a non-poisonous plant that is generally safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Lewis flax grow?
A: Lewis flax typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet.
Q: Does Lewis flax require full sun?
A: Yes, Lewis flax thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Lewis flax suitable for container gardening?
A: Lewis flax can be grown in containers, but it prefers open ground for better root development.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
