Scarlet Flax Information
Scarlet flax wildflowers are hardy, annual, flowering herbs. This attractive flower has five scarlet petals and stamens that are covered in blue pollen. Each flower lasts only for a few hours, but continues to bloom throughout the day. Scarlet flax wildflowers grow from 1 to 2 feet (0.5 m.) and last about four to six weeks, between the months of April and September. The seeds of the scarlet flax are shiny because the oil content in them is quite high. Flax seeds produce linseed oil, which is used in baking and in bulk-forming laxatives. Linoleum, the inexpensive, durable floor covering from the 1950’s, is also produced from linseed oil. Flax fiber, which is stronger than cotton, is taken from the skin of the stem. It is used for linen fabric, rope, and twine. These pretty flax plants are native to North Africa and southern Europe but are popular in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 10. Scarlet flax wildflowers love full sun and can tolerate extreme heat, but prefer cooler climates. Scarlet flax care is minimal and the flower is fairly easy to grow and maintain, which makes it a perfect plant for inexperienced gardeners. Many people use them as border plants or mixed in with a sunny wildflower or cottage garden.
Scarlet Flax Planting
Growing scarlet flax seeds in peat pots will make transplanting them into the garden much easier. Start them four to six weeks before your expected last frost date. Space young plants 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm.) apart in a sunny section of your garden in the spring. You can also sow seeds directly into your garden. Prepare the soil by raking a 1/8-inch (0.5 cm.) deep layer of dirt, scatter the seeds, and press the soil down. Be sure to water thoroughly until the plants are established.
