Flax

Flax refers to the plant Linum usitatissimum, as well as the fiber derived from its stem and the seeds produced by the plant. It is an annual herb native to the temperate regions of Asia and Europe, typically 0.5 to 1.0 meter tall with slender stems and blue flowers. Flax is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with evidence of use dating back several thousand years.

The plant is cultivated for two main products: fiber and seeds. Flax fiber, also called linen, is valued for its strength, light weight, and cool feel. After harvesting, the stems are subjected to retting and decortication to separate bast fiber from the woody core, and the fiber is processed by combing to produce yarns for textiles, rope, and specialty papers. Flax seeds—also called linseed—are edible and pressed to produce linseed oil. The meal or cake remaining after oil extraction is used in animal feed or as a dietary supplement.

Flax seeds are a source of dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fats, including alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. They also contain lignans, a group of phytoestrogens, and are used in baking, cereals, and as a supplement. Linseed oil is used in paints, varnishes, and wood finishing, as well as a traditional dietary oil. The seeds can be consumed ground to improve nutrient availability.

Flax is cultivated in temperate climates with well-drained soil. It prefers cool growing seasons and moderate rainfall. Harvest typically occurs when the seed capsules mature; fiber production involves earlier harvest and retting. Major producers include Canada, Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and parts of Europe. The term linen reflects the long historical association between the crop and textile production.