Blue Flax Seeds - (Linum lewisii)

Blue Flax - Blue Wonders

One of the most beautiful, of the all-blue flowering plants with blue-green narrow leaves on graceful 2' tall stems. This native wildflower offers profuse displays of tiny, satiny, sky-blue or lavender to white flowers each morning, from early to late summer.

Easy to grow and quick to establish, it will flush with blooms starting its second year. Grows from expanding clumps of stalks with 1/2 - 1 " wide flowers. Produces a continual profusion of blooms that each lasts a day, with new ones appearing each morning. The delicate flower petals are often showcased by veins of darker blue. Organic agriculture uses blue flax to attract and increase beneficial insect diversity and bring nutrients back to the topsoil and into the shallow root zone. 

Very adaptable and tolerant of drought, heat and cold weather.

History

This species is named "lewisii" in honor of Meriwether Lewis of Lewis & Clark, since it was discovered on their expedition across the plains. Native to western North America it is found from Alaska south to Baja California, and from the Pacific Coast east to the Mississippi River.

Uses

Attracts smaller bees - including solitary bees, many species of butterflies and the seeds and capsules are a food source for birds in fall and winter. The root systems help stabilize soil, reduce erosion and improve the soil by mobilizing phosphorus and adding organic matter. A source of flax fiber, flax seed and linseed oil.

Growing Tip

Use in borders and rock gardens. Carefree, will self-sow gently. 

Learn More

• Plant Your Springs Flowers in the Fall

From the soil to the seed to the food you eat - we'll help you grow your best garden!