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Description
Linum Pubescens, commonly known as hairy wild flax, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Linaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in rocky and sandy soils in various habitats such as prairies, savannas, and woodlands. The plant typically grows up to 60 cm in height and has a slender stem with alternate leaves that are lance-shaped and hairy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Linaceae |
| Genus | Linum |
Appearance
The hairy wild flax produces pale blue flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter and have five petals. The flowers bloom in the summer and attract bees and butterflies. The plant also produces small, hairy fruits that contain seeds. The leaves of the plant are green, lance-shaped, and hairy. The stem of the plant is slender and hairy as well.
Care Guide
The hairy wild flax is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can fertilize it once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The hairy wild flax is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if the soil is poorly drained. It may also attract aphids and spider mites.
Habitat
The hairy wild flax is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as prairies, savannas, and woodlands. It prefers rocky and sandy soils and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the hairy wild flax drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, the hairy wild flax is drought-tolerant and can tolerate heat as well.
Q: What type of soil does the hairy wild flax prefer?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
Q: Does the hairy wild flax attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces pale blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Does the hairy wild flax require fertilization?
A: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can fertilize it once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Linum lewisii
- Linum perenne
- Linum usitatissimum
- Linum sulcatum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LIPU3
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/linum_pubescens.shtml
- https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/hairy-wild-flax
