Linum flavum
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Linum flavum

Yellow flax · Golden flax

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 4–9
Click count
16
Observations
140

Description

Source: leafsnap

Linum flavum, the golden flax or yellow flax, is a species of flowering plant in the family Linaceae, native to central and southern Europe. It is an erect, woody perennial growing to 30 cm (12 in) tall by 20 cm (8 in) broad, with dark green, semi-evergreen leaves, and terminal clusters of bright yellow, five-petalled flowers in spring. The Latin flavum means "pure yellow".In cultivation this plant requires sharply drained soil in a sunny position. It is suitable for a rock garden or alpine garden. The cultivar 'Gemmell's Hybrid' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Care Guide

💧 Water

Golden flax is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in environments with balanced humidity while avoiding excessive moisture. It should be watered every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen plant, golden flax efficiently retains water year-round, making it ideal for indoor gardening.

☀️ Light Full sun

Golden flax comes from bright, open habitats where it prospers in full sun. It can tolerate partial sun but favors direct sunlight for optimal growth. This plant, which may be annual or biennial, is noted for its sun-loving nature.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Golden flax can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its range may still be restricted by different combinations of moisture and heat. It performs best in warm summer climates with sufficient rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or sustained high temperatures can increase the chance of Golden flax dying. In winter, adequate protection from cold can improve the plant's survival rate.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

When most of the Golden flax flowers have opened to full size, resume fertilizing. During the period of peak bloom production, feed it every three to four weeks, as weather allows. After the plant begins producing fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there is no need to apply fertilizer when it can no longer produce additional blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

Golden flax thrives with selective pruning, which removes dead stems and promotes new growth. For best results, prune between early and late spring to improve air circulation and increase sunlight exposure. Use sharp tools to prevent disease, encourage a bushier appearance, and support abundant blooms, ensuring the plant remains healthy and beautiful.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Linum
Family
Linaceae
Hardiness Zone
4-9
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm to 46 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall

Tags (7)

Common Names (2)

en Yellow flax
en Golden flax