Linum alpinum, commonly known as Alpine Flax or Blue Mountain Flax, is a perennial herb native to the high-altitude environments of the European Alps and the Pyrenees, where it thrives in alpine meadows and on rocky slopes. This plant exhibits a moderate growth rate and typically reaches a height and width of 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters). Alpine Flax is characterized by its delicate, narrow leaves and striking blue flowers, which bloom profusely in the summer and are highly ornamental. The flowers’ showiness makes them a highlight in rock gardens and alpine collections.

Alpine Flax is valued for its ease of maintenance and its ability to adapt to the challenging conditions of high-altitude gardening. It is often used in rock gardens, as a border plant, or in wildflower meadows where its vibrant blue flowers can create a stunning visual impact. It requires full sun exposure to flourish and prefers well-drained loam or sandy soils. While it tolerates medium amounts of water, good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Alpine Flax is not known for significant disease or pest problems, but it can be sensitive to overly wet conditions. It is not typically invasive and is appreciated for its non-aggressive growth habit.CC BY-SA 4.0