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Description
Linum Stelleroides, commonly known as mountain flax, is a beautiful perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Linaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in rocky, alpine regions. This plant boasts delicate, star-shaped flowers that bloom in various shades of blue, pink, and white. The foliage is slender and needle-like, and the plant grows up to a height of 6-10 inches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
Appearance
The mountain flax is a beautiful plant that produces delicate, star-shaped flowers that bloom in various shades of blue, pink, and white. The foliage is slender and needle-like, and the plant grows up to a height of 6-10 inches. The flowers have five petals and are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The plant blooms in early summer and continues to flower until early fall. The flowers are followed by small, round seed capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Mountain flax is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
Water
Mountain flax prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
Mountain flax prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
Mountain flax prefers full sun to partial shade. It will tolerate some shade, but too much shade will result in weak growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Mountain flax is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. It can withstand cold temperatures and is tolerant of drought.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mountain flax is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies may infest the plant, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Mountain flax is native to North America and is commonly found in rocky, alpine regions. It prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be found growing in meadows, open woods, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is mountain flax a perennial or an annual?
A: Mountain flax is a perennial plant.
Q: When does mountain flax bloom?
A: Mountain flax blooms in early summer and continues to flower until early fall.
Q: How tall does mountain flax grow?
A: Mountain flax grows up to a height of 6-10 inches.
Q: What kind of soil does mountain flax prefer?
A: Mountain flax prefers well-drained, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Linum grandiflorum
- Linum lewisii
- Linum perenne
- Linum usitatissimum
References
- Mountain Flax – USDA Plants Database
- Linum Stelleroides – Missouri Botanical Garden
- Linum Stelleroides – Plant Finder – Garden.org
