LINUM FLA'VUM. 
YELLOW FLAX. 
Class. 
PENTANDRIA. 
Order. 
PENTAGYNIA. 
Natural Order. 
LXNEjE. 
Native of 
Height. 
Flowers in 
Duration. 
Introduced 
Austria. 
9 inches. 
June, July. 
Perennial. 
in 1793. 
No. 539. 
The Greek linon, signifying flax or cotton, is 
usually esteemed as the origin of our Linum ; al- 
though it has, sometimes, been referred to the Cel- 
tic Llin, a thread. See No. 14. 
This is one amongst the many plants introduced 
years ago, to this country, which seems to have es- 
caped thfe observation of the generality of the lovers 
of gay hardy perennials. Its flowers, which are 
produced freely, in succession, give a very lively 
effect to the parterre ; and its foliage and habit are 
of the character most desirable, if neatness be a de- 
sideratum in the flower garden. The Linum fla- 
vum has, not unfrequently, been neglected from an 
idea that it is not sufficiently hardy to encounter 
our severe and variable winters, but this impression 
is erroneous; and if it were not so, cuttings of the 
young shoots strike root so readily in the summer, 
and may be kept in pots, in a shed or harbour, in 
such perfect health, that it would still be a desirable 
addition to the open flower garden. It is said to 
ripen seeds, but this has not occurred with our plants. 
As it never grows high or straggling, it should have 
a place near the front of the border. 
