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delete_flow

Permanently delete a flow from Langflow to remove obsolete workflows or clean up test flows. This operation is irreversible.

Instructions

Permanently remove a single flow from Langflow instance.

Purpose: Delete flows that are no longer needed, removing obsolete workflows, or cleaning up test/development flows. This operation is destructive and irreversible - deleted flows cannot be recovered unless previously backed up via download_flows.

Parameters:

  • flow_id (required, UUID string): Unique identifier of flow to delete (from list_flows or get_flow)

Returns: Success object containing:

  • success (boolean): true if deletion succeeded

  • message (string): Confirmation message

Usage Examples:

  1. Delete single flow: { flow_id: "550e8400-e29b-41d4-a716-446655440000" }

  2. Remove test flow: { flow_id: "test-flow-uuid" }

Best Practices:

  • Download flow backup with download_flows before deletion if you might need it later

  • Verify flow_id is correct using get_flow before deleting to avoid mistakes

  • Check if flow is used in production or referenced by other systems before deletion

  • Document why flow was deleted for audit purposes

  • For deleting multiple flows, use delete_flows (batch operation) instead

  • Review flow contents one final time before permanent removal

  • Consider archiving flows to dedicated folder instead of deleting

  • Ensure no running jobs or active sessions using this flow

Common Errors:

  • "Flow not found": flow_id doesn't exist or already deleted (verify with list_flows)

  • "Invalid UUID format": flow_id must be valid UUID string

  • "Cannot delete running flow": Flow has active execution (wait for completion or cancel)

  • "flow_id is required": Must provide flow_id parameter

  • "Unauthorized": API key lacks permission to delete this flow

  • "Flow is referenced": Flow is used as component in other flows (remove references first)

Related Tools:

  • download_flows: Backup flow before deletion for potential recovery

  • list_flows: Find flow_id for flows to delete

  • get_flow: Inspect flow before deletion to confirm it's the right one

  • delete_flows: Delete multiple flows at once (more efficient for bulk operations)

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
flow_idYesThe ID of the flow to delete
Behavior5/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

The description is clear about the irreversible, destructive nature of the operation: 'Permanently remove', 'destructive and irreversible', and 'cannot be recovered unless previously backed up'. It also covers common errors like unauthorized access and active flows, which adds transparency.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is well-structured with clear sections including Purpose, Parameters, Returns, Usage Examples, Best Practices, Common Errors, and Related Tools. While lengthy, it is organized and front-loaded with the purpose. Each section adds value, though some repetition could be trimmed.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the simple input schema (one parameter) and no output schema, the description is comprehensive. It includes return object specification, common errors, usage examples, and best practices. It covers all necessary context for an agent to safely and correctly invoke the tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters4/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The single parameter 'flow_id' is described in the description with its type (UUID string) and guidance on how to obtain it (from list_flows or get_flow). The schema already provides basic description, but the tool description adds context and best practices, exceeding the baseline.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose: 'Permanently remove a single flow from Langflow instance.' It uses specific verbs like 'remove' and identifies the resource 'flow'. It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'delete_flows' for batch operations.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description explicitly states when to use the tool (e.g., cleaning up test/development flows) and provides best practices including when not to use it (e.g., if flow is in production). It also mentions alternatives like 'delete_flows' for bulk operations and 'download_flows' for backup.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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