Golden Flax (Linum usitatissimum ‘Golden’) is a plant with vibrant golden-yellow flowers and slender stems. This annual herb offers visual appeal and beneficial seeds. Its delicate appearance belies its adaptability. Beyond aesthetics, its seeds are valued for nutritional content, making it versatile for ornamental and functional gardens.
Growing Golden Flax
Ideal Growing Conditions
Golden Flax thrives in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours daily. It prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil (sandy loam, pH 6.2-7); amending poor soil with organic matter, like compost, improves quality.
While mature plants tolerate some drought, consistent moisture is beneficial during the growing season. Regular watering is important for young plants to ensure establishment, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Flax prefers cool temperatures during initial growth, transitioning to warmer, drier conditions as it matures. Avoid excessively wet or poorly drained soils to prevent root rot and ensure healthy development.
Planting and Care
Golden Flax seeds can be sown directly in early spring (mid-April to end of May, or four weeks before last frost). Plant seeds shallowly (0.5-2 cm deep) and space 5-10 cm apart. For larger areas, broadcast one tablespoon of seeds per 10 square feet for a dense patch.
After planting, lightly rake to cover seeds and tamp soil for good seed-to-soil contact. Young flax plants are not competitive against weeds, so regular weeding or hoeing is advisable until they reach 10-20 cm. Flax requires minimal fertilization; excessive nitrogen can lead to weaker stems prone to lodging in windy conditions.
Uses and Benefits of Golden Flax
Ornamental Value
The bright, golden-yellow flowers create a cheerful display, enhancing garden appeal. Its delicate form and slender stems add a light, airy texture. It suits various garden styles, including cottage gardens, naturalized plantings, rock gardens, and containers.
Beyond aesthetics, Golden Flax attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it a good choice for beauty and ecological benefit. Compact varieties, like ‘Compactum’, suit smaller spaces or border fronts.
Culinary and Health Benefits
Golden Flax seeds are nutrient-dense, recognized for healthy fats, dietary fiber, and lignans. They are a source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. The seeds have a mild, nutty flavor, often less pronounced than brown flax seeds, making them versatile.
These seeds can be incorporated into smoothies, baked goods (muffins, breads), or sprinkled over cereals and yogurts. Ground flaxseed can also serve as a plant-based egg substitute in baking (mix one tablespoon ground flaxseed with three tablespoons water and allow to thicken). Consuming ground flax seeds allows for better absorption of nutritional compounds.
Harvesting Golden Flax Seeds
Harvesting Golden Flax seeds occurs when seed pods (bolls) turn brown and seeds rattle when shaken. This usually happens 90-100 days after planting. At this stage, most stems will have turned tan or brown, though some green leaves or late blooms might be present. To harvest, cut stems at their base or pull them up by the roots.
Gather stems into bundles and hang in a warm, well-ventilated area to dry for three to five weeks. Once dry, seeds can be separated from pods through threshing (crushing pods or beating bundles over a cloth). After threshing, seeds will be mixed with plant debris (chaff). Chaff can be removed through winnowing, by gently pouring the mixture between two containers in a light breeze, allowing lighter chaff to blow away while heavier seeds fall. Cleaned Golden Flax seeds should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place (refrigerator or freezer) to maintain freshness and prevent rancidity.