Also known as Cultivated Flax · Fibre Flax · Flax
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Linseed (Linum usitatissimum) is an annual herb cultivated globally for its versatile seeds (linseed oil, flaxseed) and strong fibers (linen textiles). It has delicate bl
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
90% intensity
Consistently moist
60% intensity
During growth and flowering
Well-drained, fertile loam
50% intensity
Cool to moderate
60% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low to moderate
40% intensity
If soil fertility is low
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Raw seeds and other plant parts contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic if consumed in large, unprocessed quantities. However, processed flaxseed and flaxseed oil are widely consumed and considered safe.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during germination and flowering stages. Reduce watering slightly as the seed capsules mature.
Avoid overhead irrigation to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. Good drainage is crucial for healthy root development.
Minimal pruning is necessary for flax. Remove any yellowing or diseased lower leaves to improve air circulation and plant health.
For fiber flax, plants are traditionally pulled from the ground rather than cut, to preserve the full length of the valuable fibers.
Flax is primarily propagated by seed. Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, ensuring good soil contact and consistent moisture for successful germination.
Seeds can also be started indoors a few weeks before the last frost and transplanted carefully.
As an annual field crop, flax is typically grown directly in the ground and does not require repotting. If started indoors in small pots, transplant seedlings to their final outdoor location once they are robust enough and the risk of frost has passed.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Flax (Linum usitatissimum)
Where Common Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is found
Density
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7 known issues from plant disease data
Seedling blight on Flax causes poor emergence, weak seedlings, and early stem collapse, leaving thin patches and uneven young plant stands.
Fusarium wilt in Flax causes yellowing, drooping, and one-sided stem death, with plants wilting early and drying before full seed set.
Pasmo in Flax causes brown bands and spots on leaves and stems, leading to early leaf drop, stem damage, and poorer plant vigor.
Flax rust on Flax causes bright orange pustules on leaves and stems, weakening plants and leaving foliage dry, spotted, and damaged.
Powdery mildew on Flax causes a white dusty coating on leaves and stems, reducing vigor and leaving plants dull, weak, and stunted.
Aster yellows in Flax causes yellowing, twisted growth, and small deformed flowers, leaving plants stunted and poor in seed production.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
| Species | Linum usitatissimum |
Similar in genus Linum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
