Scarlet Flax

USDA Hardiness Zones: N/A (annual)

Approximate number of seeds per kilogram (pound) : 275,000 (125,000)

Sun: prefers full sun, but light shade is tolerated

Water: keep soil lightly moist during germination, red flax is drought tolerant

Soil: cover with 1/8 inch of soil and use a loose, fine, well-drained soil. 

 Temperature: 18 to 21 degrees Celsius (65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit)

Spacing: 8 pounds per acre for a meadow, or 12 inches apart in rows

Germination Time: 3 to 4 weeks

Scarlet flax is native to  is native to southern Europe and northern Africa.  Unlike its perennial cousin, blue flax, scarlet flax is an annual.  It can be sown in early spring after the last frost or in autumn after the first frost.  Scarlet flax does not transplant well, so sow where you intend the plants to grow.  They are quite hardy once established and will tolerate hot and dry conditions well.