Flax, botanically known as Linum Usitatissimum, is a high-elevation perennial that grows up to about 9,500 feet and is hardy to USDA zone 4. Its blue flowers open just after sunrise and usually close by early afternoon on sunny days.

It blooms for a long season. After flowers fade, buff-colored seed pods form, but the plant keeps producing new flowers, so mature plants can have dozens of blossoms open daily through summer.

It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and can thrive with little to no supplemental water once established, which helps with erosion control in disturbed soils.