Linum perenne (Blue Flax) Seeds

Linum perenne, or Perennial Flax, is an ultra-reliable Hardy Perennial (H7). It is exceptionally tough, capable of surviving UK winters down to -20°C. While individual plants are often short-lived (3-4 years), it is a prolific self-seeder that will establish a permanent and increasing presence in your garden.

The Drought Specialist: Flax has evolved a deep, wiry root system that makes it a master of survival in lean, dry conditions. It is one of the few perennials that will actually thrive in poor, stony, or sandy soil where more pampered plants might wither.

Wildlife Value: Its open, sky-blue flowers are a high-value nectar source for hoverflies and small solitary bees. Because it produces such a high volume of flowers over many weeks, it provides a consistent food station for pollinators throughout the summer.

Linum is remarkably easy to grow from seed, provided its preference for undisturbed roots is respected.

How to Sow:
Sow directly outdoors in March to May or August to September. Scatter seeds onto a finely raked surface and cover lightly with soil. If sowing indoors, use module trays or peat-free plugs so the entire root ball can be transplanted without disturbance. Germination typically takes 14-21 days.

Where to Plant:
They demand full sun and exceptionally well-drained soil. They are the perfect choice for south-facing banks, gravel gardens, or seaside locations. They dislike heavy, wet clay; if your soil is heavy, grow them in raised beds or amend heavily with grit.

Ongoing Care:
Once established, Blue Flax is a "set and forget" plant that requires no additional watering or feeding. After the first heavy flush of blue flowers in early summer, you can cut the stems back by half to encourage a tidy habit and a second wave of blooms later in the season.

The clear sky-blue of Flax looks spectacular when paired with warm or structural partners from our collection:

• ☀️ Californian Poppy 'Golden West': The Drought Duo. Blue and Orange are complementary colours. Both plants love the sun and thrive in poor, dry soil. Planting them together creates a stunning, vibrant "gravel garden" look that requires virtually zero maintenance.
• 🌼 Oxeye Daisy: The Meadow Mix. The sturdy, white saucer-shaped heads of the Oxeye Daisy provide a structural anchor among the wafty, delicate stems of the Blue Flax. This is the quintessential English summer meadow combination.

Sow in spring or autumn for a shimmering river of clear sky-blue from May through August.