Lewis Flax

Short-lived, drought tolerant native perennial with light blue flowers that are replaced daily from April to August. Widely adapted, occurring on well-drained, infertile and disturbed soils of mixed grass prairies, shrublands, woodlands and forest openings; up to 12,000 ft. elevation. Cold hardy. Intolerant of poor drainage, flooded soils or high water tables. Use for habitat restoration, reclamation, roadsides and beautification. Also use in green strips and fuel breaks; semi-evergreen and fire resistant. Eaten by livestock and wild ungulates, especially deer and antelope. Birds eat the seeds in fall and winter.