Blue Flax
J.S. Peterson @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. 3 vols. Charles Scribner's Sons, New York. Vol. 2: 436.
Names: Blue Flax (English); Lin Bleu (French); Linum lewisii (Latin)
Characteristics: Blue flowers hang in small clusters from weighed-down branches. Relatively small, yet full plant.
Habitat and Origin: Found on hillsides, open meadows and woods in the Foothills and Prairies.
Optimal Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun, soil dry to well drained.
Edible Portions: Seeds, only when cooked.
Aboriginal Peoples Uses: Linen fibres obtained from the stems and used for tying and stringing together various objects. Seeds and oils consumed, deemed beneficial for skin.