Stiff-stem Flax
Linum rigidum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, CO, IA, IL and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Stiff-stem flax is a compact native wildflower that produces cheerful yellow blooms from May through July. This drought-tolerant perennial forms neat clumps with slender stems and narrow leaves, making it well-suited for sunny, dry locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stiff-stem Flax 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.
- Dies back completely as annual, leaving gaps in landscape
- May be perceived as temporary or weedy
- Short blooming period followed by seed dispersal phase
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for finches and other small birds in late summer.
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 Stiff-stem Flax fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.