What is Flax?
Flax is an annual grown for its stem fibers and oil-rich seeds.
Structure and life cycle
Form and products: Slender stems bear narrow leaves and often blue flowers, followed by seed capsules. Textile production emphasizes long stem fibers and their processing, while seed types target the seeds. Retting helps separate fibers from the surrounding stem tissue.
Growth, uses and cautions
Uses and distinction: Linen fabric, flaxseed and linseed oil are products from different parts of the same plant. Seeds can be foods; oil uses depend on processing. Flax differs from cotton in both plant structure and the origin of its textile fibers.
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