Linum usitatissimum L.
Linaceae (flax family)
Location: Oil seeds
Origin: Near East, Central Asia, Mediterranean basin.
Biophysical Requirements: Flax is adapted to cool weather, and can be produced in dryland areas such as in North Dakota.
Uses: This crop produces both oil and fiber. The oil (linseed) contains alpha‐linolenic acid, a drying oil, meaning it can polymerize into a solid form. It is used mainly in paints and manufacture of linoleum and oil cloth. The oil meal is fed to livestock. The phloem fiber (linen) is used in linen textiles and fine paper.
See also Purdue University new crops website.