Western Blue Flax (Linum lewisii)

Western Blue Flax
Scientific Name: Linum lewisii Pursh
Synonym: Linum perenne var. lewisii
Family: Linaceae

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Linum lewisii Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 3-24,32-34,39
USDA: 3-9

Sun Exposure: Sun to part shade
Origin: Western North America
Growth Habits: perennial, 1.5 to 3 feet tall (45-90 cm), 1 foot spread (30 cm) ; long taproot
Watering Needs: Low to moderate water
Propagation: Seeds

The species name 'lewisii' honors Captain Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
The Linum lewisii is similar looking to the European perennial flax (Linum perenne).

Linum lewisii, Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 2: 436. Courtesy of Kentucky Native Plant Society.

Blooming Habits:
Dozens of bright blue to white flowers, 1 to 2 inches in diameter (2.5-5 cm), in drooping branches at the tip of each stem, closing in the evening.

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