False Flax: A Hardy Annual That’s Not Actually Flax
Despite its common name, false flax (Camelina) isn’t related to true flax at all! This quirky little annual has been quietly spreading across North America, and while it’s not native to our continent, it’s become a familiar sight in many regions. Whether you’re considering adding it to your garden or you’ve spotted it growing wild, here’s what you need to know about this adaptable plant.
What Exactly Is False Flax?
False flax is an annual or biennial forb – essentially a non-woody flowering plant that completes its life cycle in one to two years. As a member of the mustard family, it produces small, cheerful yellow flowers that cluster at the tops of slender stems. The plant gets its false flax nickname from its somewhat similar appearance to true flax, though they’re completely unrelated species.
This European and Asian native has made itself quite at home across North America, from Alaska down to the southern United States. It’s what botanists call a naturalized species – meaning it arrived here through human activity but now reproduces on its own in the wild.
Where Does False Flax Grow?
Talk about a well-traveled plant! False flax has established itself across an impressive range of North American territories and states, including Alberta, British Columbia, Alaska, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Colorado, Prince Edward Island, Connecticut, Quebec, Delaware, Saskatchewan, District of Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Newfoundland.
Should You Plant False Flax in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting. False flax isn’t native to North America, but it’s also not considered invasive or problematic in most areas. This puts it in a sort of gardening gray zone. While it can add interest to wildflower gardens and naturalized areas, you might want to consider native alternatives first.
Reasons you might like false flax:
- Extremely hardy and drought-tolerant once established
- Attracts small pollinators with its tiny yellow flowers
- Self-seeds readily for a naturalized look
- Grows in poor soils where other plants struggle
- Interesting heart-shaped seed pods add texture
Things to consider:
- It’s not native, so it won’t support native wildlife as effectively as indigenous plants
- Can self-seed aggressively if conditions are right
- May not fit the aesthetic of formal garden designs
Native Alternatives to Consider
If you’re drawn to false flax but prefer native options, consider these alternatives that offer similar benefits:
- Wild bergamot for pollinator appeal
- Native mustard species for similar flower structure
- Prairie sunflower for drought tolerance
- Local wildflower mixes suited to your region
Growing False Flax Successfully
If you decide to grow false flax, you’ll find it refreshingly low-maintenance. This tough little plant thrives in USDA zones 2-9, making it suitable for most North American gardens.
Ideal growing conditions:
- Full sun exposure
- Well-draining soil (it actually prefers poor to average soil)
- Minimal water once established
- pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
Planting and Care Tips
False flax is wonderfully easy to grow from seed. Direct sow in early spring or fall, barely covering the tiny seeds with soil. You can also scatter seeds in late fall for spring germination.
Care requirements:
- Water lightly until seedlings establish
- No fertilizer needed (too much nutrition can make plants leggy)
- Allow some plants to go to seed if you want natural reseeding
- Deadhead if you want to prevent self-seeding
The Bottom Line
False flax is an interesting plant that straddles the line between wildflower and weed, depending on your perspective. While it’s not native to North America, it’s also not particularly problematic. If you’re creating a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden and don’t mind its humble appearance, false flax can be a useful addition. However, if you’re passionate about supporting native ecosystems, you’ll probably want to choose indigenous alternatives that better support local wildlife.
Whatever you decide, remember that the best garden is one that brings you joy while being mindful of the broader ecosystem. Happy gardening!
