Linum perenne
Linum perenne is the Eurasian perennial flax naturalized across much of North America. Plants form neat tufts with many wiry stems and sky blue flowers. Each bloom lasts one day yet the plant flowers for many weeks in late spring. This species stands out for a long, airy display in lean, sunny soils. It performs best in full sun with average to dry moisture and sharp drainage.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Species
- Height × spread: 12 to 24 in (30 to 60 cm) × 9 to 18 in (23 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: late spring for 6 to 8 weeks
- Color & flower form: sky blue; five petaled, saucer shaped
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 5 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown; native to Europe
- Cut‑flower notes: Stems are fine but usable; ASHS trials report about 9 days average vase life with preservative for L. perenne cuts.
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Introduced species commonly sold as blue flax in seed mixes.
- Tufted habit that stays compact in average garden soils.
- Heavy bloom in late spring; petals drop by afternoon on sunny days.
- Less tolerant of summer humidity than many border perennials.
Strengths
- Long bloom with minimal care in lean soils
- Good drought tolerance once established
- Deer resistant in many regions
- Self sows modestly to renew clumps
Care in one minute
- Site: full sun; tolerate light afternoon shade in hot summers
- Soil: well drained, low to average fertility; neutral to slightly alkaline
- Water: low to moderate; avoid constant moisture
- Feeding: none or very light; excess nitrogen reduces flower count
- Grooming: shear lightly after peak to tidy; leave some seed for renewal
Watch‑outs
- Short lived; encourage self sowing to persist
- Petals shatter daily which is normal
- Root and crown rot in poorly drained clay
- Seedlings may appear beyond the original patch
Best uses (tags)
borders, rock gardens, meadows, slopes, cutting
Provenance note
A European species long grown for ornament; widely naturalized in North America and noted for 6 to 8 weeks of bloom in late spring.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder: Linum perenne
- ASHS HortScience 2022: Perennial Flax as a Cut Flower
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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