Linum monogynum
Family: Linaceae
What it is like
Linum monogynum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Rocky places and dunes from the coast to inland lower montane zones, North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A fibre is obtained from the stem.
Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.
How it is grown
Prefers a light well-drained moderately fertile humus-rich soil in a sunny sheltered position. A very ornamental plant, it is only hardy in the milder areas of the country. Plants are thriving in a sheltered position at Rosewarne Gardens in N. Devon, whilst they are killed over the winter in an exposed Cornish garden.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Basal cuttings in spring. Harvest the shoots when they are about 8 - 10cm long with plenty of underground stem. Pot them up into individual pots and keep them in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the summer.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist