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Description
Linum grandiflorum, commonly known as Scarlet Flax, is an annual plant species belonging to the Linaceae family. It is native to North Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant. The plant is known for its bright scarlet red flowers that bloom in the summer months, making it a popular choice for adding a pop of color to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
Appearance
Scarlet Flax plants typically grow up to 1-2 feet tall and spread about 1-2 feet wide. They have thin, green, needle-like leaves that are about 1 inch long. The flowers of the plant are about 1 inch in diameter and are bright scarlet red in color with a dark center. The blooms are cup-shaped and have five petals that surround the reproductive organs of the flower. Scarlet Flax plants are known to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Scarlet Flax plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Scarlet Flax plants prefer well-draining soil and should only be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plants once every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Scarlet Flax plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.0-8.0.
- Sunlight: Scarlet Flax plants prefer full sunlight but can tolerate some light shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Scarlet Flax plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scarlet Flax plants are generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, they can be prone to root rot if overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plants. If the plants are affected by pests, such as aphids or spider mites, treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Scarlet Flax plants are native to North Africa and are commonly found growing in rocky, dry habitats such as hillsides, meadows, and along roadsides. They are well-adapted to hot, arid climates and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How long do Scarlet Flax plants bloom for?
A: Scarlet Flax plants typically bloom for several weeks in the summer months.
Q: Can Scarlet Flax plants tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Scarlet Flax plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate some cold temperatures, but they are generally grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Q: Can Scarlet Flax plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scarlet Flax plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Do Scarlet Flax plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Scarlet Flax plants are known to attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Related Plants
- Linum usitatissimum (Common Flax)
- Linum perenne (Blue Flax)
- Linum lewisii (Lewis Flax)
References
- “Linum Grandiflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286800&isprofile=0.
- “Scarlet Flax.” Texas A&M Agrilife Extension, agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/landscaping/scarlet-flax/.
- “Linum Grandiflorum.” PlantFiles, www.plantfiles.com/profiles/Linum_grandiflorum/.
