Linum austriacum, commonly known as Asian Flax, Austrian Flax, or Dwarf Flax, is a perennial herb that is native to a range of habitats in Eurasia, including dry meadows, steppes, and rocky slopes. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a width of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters). This plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and bears showy, cup-shaped yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, adding a splash of color to the garden landscape.

Asian Flax is appreciated for its drought tolerance and the delicate beauty of its flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, as a border plant, or in naturalized areas where its low water requirements and ability to thrive in poor soils are advantageous. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soils, including loamy or sandy types. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to rust and other fungal diseases if conditions are too moist. Asian Flax is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest problems, making it a well-behaved addition to the garden. It is also valued for its fibers and seeds, the latter of which can be used to produce linseed oil.CC BY-SA 4.0