Linum hudsonioides, commonly known as Hudson Flax, is an annual herb native to open, sandy soils in prairies and plains of the Southwestern United States, particularly in Texas. It typically grows to a height and width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), featuring slender stems and narrow leaves that give it a delicate appearance. The plant produces small, cup-shaped flowers with five petals that are most commonly bright yellow, occasionally with a red base, which bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators such as bees.

Hudson Flax is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils where other plants might struggle. It is often used in wildflower mixes, naturalized areas, or as a border plant in xeriscapes due to its low water requirements. Gardeners appreciate its ease of maintenance and the subtle charm of its flowers. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and requires well-drained soils. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly moist conditions. Hudson Flax is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a worry-free addition to the garden. It is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but as with all plants, gardeners should monitor and manage its spread to ensure it does not become a problem.CC BY-SA 4.0