Bellflower Flax (Linum campanulatum)

Bellflower Flax

Linum campanulatum

It bears bell-shaped blooms like scattered blue stars. Perennial flowering herb; common name: bellflower flax.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; thrives in bright, direct sunlight for most of the day, with light afternoon shade in extreme heat
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained substrates
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Temperature Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; prefers warm, dry summer temperatures and cool, dry winters
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear gray-green leaves arranged alternately along slender stems
  • Flower: Bell-shaped blue to pale violet blooms, 2–3 cm in diameter, borne in loose clusters
  • Stem: Slender, upright, branching stems with fine pubescence
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; ensure drainage to avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize bloom production over foliage growth

Eggshell powder top-dressing:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly over soil surface to boost calcium content and reduce soil compaction
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage prolonged flowering
  • Trim back faded stems to ground level after flowering to promote healthy new growth the following season
  • Remove yellow or diseased foliage promptly to maintain plant vigor and prevent pest infestations
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines for related Linum species

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans with typical handling or ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant, cut flower material, drought-tolerant border plant