Scarlet Flax

Scarlet flax, also called red flax or flowering flax, is an annual herb with small, waxy leaves on erect stems. It grows about 4 to 20 inches (10 to 50 cm) tall and spreads up to about 4 inches (10 cm). Its loose clusters of deep red, saucer-shaped flowers appear in summer. In most sites it rarely lasts past one season, though it can grow as a perennial in its native Turkey.

Sow the seed directly where the plants are to grow, in spring or autumn. Choose a light, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that drains freely, in full sun. It grows best in average, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Heavy clay soil can cause shallow roots that make it hard for the plant to get through winter.

Cut some stems back by half, midway through the bloom period, to extend flowering. The plant is listed as tolerant of heat, humidity and drought.

The plant is generally disease free. It may be troubled by slugs, snails or aphids.

The seeds are the part listed as having low-severity poison characteristics for people, and they are said to cause inflammation and constriction of the throat. This warning applies to the seeds, not the flowers or leaves. No pet toxicity information is given for this plant in the pages used here.