Scientific name: linum usitatissimum
Flax, or linseed, is a plant that is grown for its seeds and for its stems. The seeds can be used whole in baking or used to make oil. Flaxseed or linseed oil is a major component in varnish.The skin of the flax stems is used to make fibers that can then be woven into fabrics like linen or made into rope.