Class
Order
Family
Classification
Subordinate Taxa
Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Linum L., Sp. Pl. 277 (1753)
Vernacular Name(s):
Flax; Perennial flax
Description
Herbs or shrubs. Lvs alternate or opposite, entire, sessile, usually exstipulate, sometimes stipules present and then gland-like. Fls solitary or in dichasia or corymbs. Sepals 5, free ± to base. Petals 5, usually white to blue or violet, rarely yellow or red. Stamens 5, united at base, alternating with 5 minute staminodes. Ovary 5-locular; styles 5, usually free, sometimes united almost to stigmas. Capsule often shortly beaked, 5-carpellate, 10-seeded, usually dehiscent, each cell divided by a secondary septum. Seeds compressed, glossy.
[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]
Biostatus
Indigenous (Non-endemic)
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Indigenous (Endemic) | 1 |
| Exotic: Fully Naturalised | 4 |
| Total | 5 |
Bibliography
Linnaeus, C. 1753: Species Plantarum. Impensis Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm.
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.
