Linseed
Linum usitatissimum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
OH
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Flax is an annual plant with delicate blue flowers and slender stems that reaches 1-3 feet tall. It blooms through summer months and has been cultivated for centuries for fiber and seed production. The plant has a neat, upright growth habit with narrow leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Linseed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature requires replanting each year
- Can appear agricultural or weedy rather than ornamental
- May self-seed creating unpredictable patches
Wildlife value
Flax flowers attract bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar sources for pollinators.
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.
Does Linseed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.