Blue Flax
Linum lewisii (syn. Linum perenne var. lewisii)
Blue Flax is a delicate perennial wildflower with sky-blue saucer-shaped flowers that flutter on wiry stems. Named for explorer Meriwether Lewis, this drought-tolerant prairie native brings ethereal beauty and supports native pollinators.
Linaceae (Flax family)
Late spring to midsummer (May-July), blooms for 6 weeks
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: callirhoes and comptonias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Blue Flax is named for Captain Meriwether Lewis of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, who discovered it in 1806 during their journey through the Rocky Mountains and along the Missouri River. The plant symbolizes exploration, discovery, and the pioneering spirit of westward expansion. Its delicate sky-blue flowers that open each morning and fade by noon represent fleeting moments of beauty and the ephemeral nature of life. For Native Americans across the West, it was a utilitarian plant providing fiber for basketry and cordage, as well as food and medicine, symbolizing sustenance and resourcefulness.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade (prefers full sun)
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established but benefits from occasional watering
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Rocky, Loam, Poor to moderate fertility, Does not tolerate clay soil
Expert Growing Tips
Direct sow seeds in fall or early spring
Flowers open in morning, close by noon on hot days (each flower lasts one day)
Plant produces abundant blooms to compensate for short individual flower life
Self-sows freely when happy, maintaining presence in garden
Short-lived perennial (2-3 years) but reseeds readily
Cut back top half after bloom to prevent thousands of seedlings
Excellent cold hardiness and drought tolerance
Somewhat deer resistant while flowering
Does not transplant well due to deep taproot - plant in permanent location
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Native wildflower and prairie gardens
- Rock gardens and xeriscaping
- Cottage gardens and perennial borders
- Erosion control on slopes
- Pollinator gardens (attracts native bees)
- Naturalized meadow plantings
- Cut flowers (short vase life)
Traditional Uses
- Native Americans used extensively for many purposes
- Fibrous stems woven into baskets, mats, fishing nets, and snowshoes
- Poultices of crushed leaves and seeds for wounds, bruises, and irritated eyes
- Seeds edible when cooked with pleasant nutty flavor
- Traditional remedy for digestive issues and eye inflammation
- Plant can be toxic to livestock in large quantities
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Flax
why is it called Lewis flax?
It's named for Captain Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, who discovered this plant in 1806 during their famous journey through the Rocky Mountains.
do blue flax flowers close at night?
Blue Flax flowers open in the morning and close by noon on hot, sunny days. Each flower lasts only one day, but the plant produces abundant blooms for weeks.
is blue flax the same as regular flax?
No, Blue Flax (Linum lewisii) is a native ornamental wildflower, while common flax (Linum usitatissimum) is an agricultural crop grown for linseed oil and linen fiber.
is blue flax deer resistant?
Blue Flax is somewhat deer resistant while flowering, though deer may browse the leafy greens in fall. It's generally not a preferred food source.
what does blue flax symbolize?
Blue Flax symbolizes freedom, exploration, delicate beauty, and the prairie spirit. Named for Lewis and Clark, it represents discovery and the fleeting nature of beautiful moments.
how long does blue flax bloom?
Blue Flax blooms for about 6 weeks from late spring to midsummer (May-July). While individual flowers last only one day, the plant produces abundant successive blooms.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Comptonia
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