Wild Blue Flax
Linum lewisii
Named for explorer Meriwether Lewis, this short-lived perennial produces the purest sky-blue flowers on wiry stems rising above needle-like blue-green foliage. Flowers open at sunrise and drop their petals by noon on hot days — but each plant produces so many you rarely notice. Self-seeds abundantly in lean, well-drained soils. A xeriscape classic.
Quick Facts
Distribution
Prairie, Foothills, Zone 3
Light
Full sun
Bloom Time
June–Aug
Soil
Lean, well-drained; dislikes heavy organic matter
Water
Low — drought-tolerant
Pet Safe— Generally considered safe around pets.
Growing & Cultivation
Best Planting Time
Fall or early spring
Propagation
Direct-sow seed 3–4 mm deep in fall or early spring; no stratification needed. Self-seeds freely. Matures and blooms in its second season.
Spacing
20–30 cm
