Linum rubrum Raf.
Red flax is a red-flowered flax grown as a hardy annual, treated as part of the Linum grandiflorum group and corresponding to its scarlet, 'Rubrum'-type forms. It makes slim, branching stems set with narrow, waxy leaves and produces a succession of shallow, bowl-shaped flowers in glowing shades of red to crimson, the petals silky and often marked with a darker centre.
About
Red flax is a red-flowered flax grown as a hardy annual, treated as part of the Linum grandiflorum group and corresponding to its scarlet, 'Rubrum'-type forms. It makes slim, branching stems set with narrow, waxy leaves and produces a succession of shallow, bowl-shaped flowers in glowing shades of red to crimson, the petals silky and often marked with a darker centre. The display continues through the summer months.
This is a cultivated garden annual rather than a British native, with origins in the flax of North Africa and southern Europe. It performs best in full sun on light, well-drained soil and is raised fresh from seed each year. The open flowers are readily visited by bees and hoverflies, and it earns its place in annual flower mixes, sunny borders and informal patches where a bold, warm-toned splash of colour is the aim.
In our seed mixes
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.