Lewis's Flax
Linum lewisii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lewis's Flax is a native wildflower producing delicate blue flowers from June through August across western and central North America. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and attracts bees and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Lewis's Flax as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lewis's flax is a delicate perennial wildflower that produces small, sky-blue flowers on slender stems throughout the summer months. This drought-tolerant native forms compact clumps with narrow, blue-green foliage that dies back in winter. The cheerful blooms open in the morning and typically last just one day, but new flowers continue appearing for months.
Growing Lewis's Flax
Grow Lewis's Flax in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lewis's Flax takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks weedy and unkempt when dormant
- Delicate wildflower appearance may seem too informal
- Self-seeds and can spread unpredictably
Wildlife value
The abundant summer blooms attract native bees and butterflies seeking nectar. Seeds provide food for goldfinches and other small songbirds in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- When does Lewis's Flax bloom?
- Lewis's Flax blooms from June through August, producing small blue flowers that attract pollinators.
- Where is Lewis's Flax native?
- Lewis's Flax is native across much of western and central North America, including states from California to Minnesota and from Montana down to Texas.
- What pollinators visit Lewis's Flax?
- Lewis's Flax attracts bees and butterflies with its blue flowers during the summer blooming period.
- How much water does Lewis's Flax need?
- Lewis's Flax is drought-tolerant and requires low water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens.
- Is Lewis's Flax toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Lewis's Flax as toxic to livestock.
- Is Lewis's Flax HOA-friendly?
- Lewis's Flax takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Lewis's Flax? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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