A hardy annual, native to Northern Africa and Southern Europe, it has naturalized throughout the United States. Once established, this variety can tolerate immense heat and extremely dry conditions. The glossy, deep scarlet flowers bloom in profusion and are best admired if planted in density. Scarlet Flax prefers full sun in well-drained soils. Best if sown in early spring, seedlings are not winter hardy. Guaranteed to draw some attention, the average planting success with this species is 70 percent and grows to a height of 12-24 inches. Scarlet Flax blooms between April and September and is used in mixtures, roadsides, meadows, and floral gardens. Plants require very little care once established, but do not transplant well.