Yellow Flax
linum flavum
Also known as: ["Golden Flax","Yellow Linseed"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with bright yellow flowers, native to Europe and Western Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Linaceae |
| Genus: | Linum |
| Botanical Name: | Linum flavum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, open position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- 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: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
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 to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
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-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate light frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when the plant is dormant; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
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.
- 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 (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or vermiculite.
Hormone
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 but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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 container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
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 in the morning to reduce 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 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 extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; can survive light frosts but not hard freezes.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may be reduced; growth can become leggy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLinum flavum is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to feline physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLinum flavum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLinum flavum, commonly known as yellow flax, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes and does not pose significant health risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Linum flavum grow?
A: It typically reaches 30–60 cm in height.
Q: Does Linum flavum require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Q: Is Linum flavum suitable for container gardening?
A: It is best grown in the ground, but can be grown in large containers with well-draining soil.
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
