Linum perenne (Perennial Flax)

Strikingly beautiful in bloom, Linum perenne (Perennial Flax) is a semi-evergreen perennial forming tufts of narrow blue-green leaves and profuse sky blue saucer-shaped flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), over a long season. Blooming in late spring to midsummer, the blossoms usually keep blooming for up to 8 weeks, up to 12 weeks when planted in partial shade. The flowers open in the morning and last for only one day, but the plant flowers profusely, making up for the short bloom time. They are borne atop wiry stems along with great quantities of nodding flower buds. As the blooms fade, their seedpods add interest to the plant in late summer. While the stems look delicate, they are difficult to break and were once used to make linen and rope. Heat, humidity and drought tolerant, Perennial Flax provides a lovely display when massed.

• Grows up to 12-24 in. tall (30-60 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm). Freely self-seeds when happy.
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils.
• Easy to grow, Perennial Flax is a good choice for areas of the garden that are hot and dry.
• Great for border fronts, rock gardens, cottage gardens, Mediterranean gardens, prairies and meadows.
• No serious insect or disease issues. Keep an eye out for slugs, snails and aphids. Deer resistant.
• Prune after flowering if the plant becomes leggy.
• Propagate by seed or stem tip cuttings. Seed-grown plants often flower the first year
• Native to Europe.