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
Root rot in Flax causes roots to darken and decay, leaving plants stunted, wilted, and easy to pull from wet or stressed soil.
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
