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Linum arvense, Linum crepitans, Linum grandiflorum, Linum humile, Linum indehiscens, Linum monadelphum, Linum moroderorum, Linum mucronatum, Linum reuteri, Linum sativum, Linum trinervium, Linum utile
Flax
Flax (also known as common flax or linseed), with the binomial name Linum usitatissimum, is a member of the genus Linum in the family Linaceae. It is a food and fiber crop that is grown in cooler regions of the world. The textiles made from flax are known in the West as linen, and traditionally used for bed sheets, underclothes and table linen. The oil is known as linseed oil. In addition to referring to the plant itself, the word "flax" may refer to the unspun fibers of the flax plant. The plant species is known only as a cultivated plant, and appears to have been domesticated just once from the wild species Linum bienne, called pale flax.
Linum usitatissimum, commonly known as flax, is an annual herb native to the region spanning from the eastern Mediterranean to India. In Qatar, it has been found growing wild, particularly in the northern and central regions. Research suggests that flax was introduced to Qatar through trade and migration routes, with archaeological evidence indicating its presence in the country dating back to ancient times. The plant thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, making Qatar's arid climate suitable for its growth. Local studies have focused on the potential of cultivating flax as a crop in Qatar, highlighting its value for fiber production, food, and medicinal purposes.
Round dry seed capsules (fruits) of flax (Linum usitatissimum) on roadside of Salwa Road, south-west from Doha. Qatar, April 23, 2014
Salwa Rd, Qatar
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 2, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Blooming flax (Linum usitatissimum) on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 10, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) with flower buds on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 10, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) starting to bloom on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 10, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Flax (Linum usitatissimum) growing on waste spot on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 11, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Flower petals of flax (Linum usitatissimum) on Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 11, 2016Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Flower petals of flax (Linum usitatissimum) taken from Al Istiqlal Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, February 11, 2016Flax plants were observed growing in various locations in Qatar, including along Salwa Road and on Al Istiqlal Street in the Onaiza area of Doha. The plants produced round dry seed capsules and bloomed with flowers, which had delicate petals. Observations were made at different stages of growth, including when the plants were starting to bloom and when they were in full bloom. The plants were able to grow in a variety of conditions, including on waste spots and roadside areas. Close-up observations of the flower petals were also made, allowing for detailed examination of their structure. Additionally, the plants were found to be growing in different areas of Doha, suggesting that they are adapted to the local environment and can thrive in a range of settings. They were spotted from February 2 to February 11, 2016, and also on April 23, 2014.
www.catalogueoflife.org
QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.