Brown Seed Common Flax

All our seeds are 100% Canadian Grown, Processed-by-Hand, Non-GMO, Certified Organic, and Open Pollinated. From our 10 acre Seed Farm in Metchosin, BC since 2004.

Quick Notes

• Easy-to-grow grain with beautiful sky-blue flowers
• Brown capsule and seed variety 
• Seeds are high in Omega-3, fibre, and protein
• Fibrous stems can be used for linen and twine
• Excellent for pollinators and dried floral arrangements

About Brown Flax

Golden Flax (Linum usitatissimum) is a highly decorative and useful plant, producing delicate sky-blue flowers atop slender, supple stems. This ancient grain is not only visually stunning but also one of the easiest to grow and thresh, making it an excellent choice for both gardeners and small-scale grain production.

The golden-yellow seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and protein, making them a highly nutritious addition to the diet. Beyond its culinary uses, the plant’s fibrous stems can be processed into linen or tough twine, while the dried stalks create elegant floral arrangements.

*This is Linum usitatissimum the Brown Capsule/Seed Variety as opposed to the Golden Capsule/Seed variety.

Where Can You Grow Brown Flax

Golden Flax thrives in Zones 3-9, preferring full sun and well-drained soil. It is an ideal crop for home gardens, prairie-style plantings, and naturalised meadows.

History and Historical Uses

Flax has been cultivated for over 6,000 years for its dual-purpose use as both a fibre and food crop. Ancient civilisations wove its fibres into linen, while the seeds were valued for their high nutritional content. Today, flax remains a staple for those seeking a sustainable, nutrient-rich grain with multiple uses.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Sow seeds in early spring or autumn for continuous flowering.
• Zones 5-7: Direct sow in early spring for summer blooms and seed production.
• Zones 3-4: Plant in late spring once the soil warms to encourage strong growth.

How to Grow and Harvest Brown Flax

1. Planting: Sow seeds 1cm (0.5in) deep, broadcasting or spacing 10-15cm (4-6in) apart.
2. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during germination; mature plants are drought-tolerant.
3. Harvesting:
   • For Seeds: Wait until seed pods turn brown and dry before collecting.
   • For Fibre: Harvest stems when plants turn golden, before the seed pods fully mature.
4. Maintenance: Minimal care is required; flax thrives in various soil conditions.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow Plants to Fully Mature: Let seed heads dry on the plant until brown and firm.
2. Harvest Seeds: Cut stems and collect seed heads before they shatter.
3. Thresh and Clean: Gently crush seed heads to release seeds, then winnow to remove chaff.
4. Store: Store cleaned seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored flax seeds remain viable for 3-5 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)