Linum catharticum L.
Bitter Flax
Fairy flax, also called purging flax, is a tiny, delicate native annual of the flax family, often easily overlooked among taller grassland plants. Its threadlike, wiry stems rise to only about 5–15cm and carry small, opposite, oval leaves.
About
Fairy flax, also called purging flax, is a tiny, delicate native annual of the flax family, often easily overlooked among taller grassland plants. Its threadlike, wiry stems rise to only about 5–15cm and carry small, opposite, oval leaves. From early summer into autumn it scatters minute, five-petalled white flowers, each held on a fine stalk and nodding slightly in bud, giving the whole plant an airy, gossamer appearance.
It is characteristic of short, open, well-drained turf, thriving on chalk and limestone grassland, dunes, heaths and other nutrient-poor soils in full sun, where it copes well with thin ground and low competition. The small flowers are visited by little bees and flies. As an indicator of unimproved, species-rich grassland it is a fitting addition to calcareous meadow and short-turf wildflower mixes, where its slender form weaves among the sward.
Also known as
Cathartic Flax · Fairy Flax · Mountain Flax · Purging Flax · Purging Flax, Fairy Flax
Synonyms
Cathartolinum catharticum · Cathartolinum pratense · Linum catharticum conferta · Linum catharticum leve · Linum catharticum simplex · Linum diversifolium · Linum pratense · Nezera cathartica
Beta — under active development. This catalogue is still being built and accuracy-checked. The information here (including plant identifications, British native status, soil and sun/shade preferences) is provided in good faith for general guidance only and may contain errors or omissions. It must not be relied upon on its own — please confirm details with us before making planting, specification, foraging or purchasing decisions, and never eat or medicinally use any plant based on this catalogue alone, as some species are toxic. To the extent permitted by law, Phoenix Amenity Supplies accepts no liability for any loss arising from use of this information.