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Description
Linum Elongatum, commonly known as Prairie Flax, is a native plant of North America. It is an herbaceous annual plant that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has thin and elongated leaves, and its flowers are bright blue and bloom from May to September. The plant produces small, round fruits that contain several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
Appearance
Prairie Flax has thin, elongated leaves that grow up to 1 inch long. The stem of the plant is slender and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The flowers are bright blue and have five petals that are 1/2 inch wide. The plant produces small, round fruits that are 1/4 inch in diameter and contain several seeds. The seeds are brown and somewhat flattened.
Care Guide
Watering: Prairie Flax needs moderate watering. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Prairie Flax does not require much fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Prairie Flax prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types and pH levels.
Sunlight: Prairie Flax requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate some shade, but its growth and flowering will be reduced.
Hardiness Zones: Prairie Flax is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Prairie Flax is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Prairie Flax is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Prairie Flax?
A: Prairie Flax needs moderate watering. Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Prairie Flax?
A: Prairie Flax does not require much fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Prairie Flax tolerate shade?
A: Prairie Flax requires full sun to grow properly. It can tolerate some shade, but its growth and flowering will be reduced.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Prairie Flax?
A: Prairie Flax is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Related Plants
- Linum Usitatissimum (Flaxseed)
- Linum Perenne (Blue Flax)
- Linum Lewisii (Prairie Flax)
References
- “Linum Elongatum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LIEL
- “Linum Elongatum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LIEL
- “Prairie Flax.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279986&isprofile=0&
