Linum_monogynum

<i>Linum monogynum</i>

Linum monogynum

Species of flowering plant

Linum monogynum, the rauhuia or New Zealand linen flax,[1] is a species of flowering plant in the family Linaceae, which is endemic to New Zealand. It is a low-growing short-lived perennial or woody subshrub, growing up to 16 in (41 cm) tall. Its spear-shaped, leathery-gray to green leaves are 0.2–1 inches (5–25 mm) long. Its pretty white flowers are up to 1 in (2.5 cm) in diameter, and have five overlapping petals. It is monoecious, having both male and female organs on one plant (hence the Latin specific epithet monogynum, literally "single wife").[2]

Quick Facts Linum monogynum, Scientific classification ...

Separate populations on Chatham Island are more robust with blue-white flowers, and may be referred to as L. monogynum var. chathamicum. There may also be variations amongst the mainland populations.[3]

This tough compact plant is well able to cope with the harsh conditions of New Zealand's coasts, often with gale-force salt-laden winds. It is a close relative to the true flax of the Northern Hemisphere, Linum usitatissimum, but is not closely related to the much better-known plants called New Zealand flax (species in the genus Phormium).[1]

References

  1. [1]
    "Plant Profiles - Linum". O2 Landscapes. Retrieved 10 November 2019.
  2. [2]
    "Linum monogynum". Plants for a Future. Retrieved 10 November 2019.
  3. [3]
    "Linum monogynum var. monogynum". New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved 10 November 2019.
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