Contents
Description
Linaceae is a family of flowering plants that consists of about 290 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees. These plants are mostly found in temperate regions of the world, but some species also occur in tropical areas. The most common species in this family is the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum), which is cultivated for its fiber and oil. Other notable members of the Linaceae family include the yellow flax (Linum flavum), the purging flax (Linum catharticum), and the wild blue flax (Linum lewisii).
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
Appearance
Linaceae plants have slender stems and narrow leaves that are usually lanceolate in shape. The flowers of this family are typically small and have five petals that are either blue, white, or yellow. The fruit of the plant is usually a capsule that contains many small seeds. The flax plant, for example, has blue flowers and produces capsules that contain small, shiny seeds.
Care Guide
Linaceae plants are easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for these plants:
- Water: Linaceae plants prefer moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought.
- Fertilization: These plants do not require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
- Soil: Linaceae plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Linaceae plants are hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Linaceae plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if they are grown in poorly-drained soil. Some common pests that can affect these plants include aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Habitat
Linaceae plants are found in a variety of habitats, from grasslands and prairies to woodlands and forests. They are also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. Some species, like the flax plant, are cultivated for their fiber and oil.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the most common species in the Linaceae family?
A: The most common species in this family is the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum).
Q: What type of soil do Linaceae plants prefer?
A: Linaceae plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect Linaceae plants?
A: Some common pests that can affect these plants include aphids and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Linaceae plants?
A: Linaceae plants are hardy in zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Malvaceae
- Urticaceae
- Rosaceae
- Apiaceae
References
- Linaceae. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved October 1, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linaceae
- Flax Plant Care and Growing Guide. (n.d.). In Garden Design. Retrieved October 1, 2021, from https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/flax.html
- Linaceae. (n.d.). In Plants of the World Online. Retrieved October 1, 2021, from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30000946-2
