Species evening primrose
pink flowers with pink filaments, yellow anthers, green leaves and brown stems

evening primrose

Oenothera kunthiana

The Evening Primose (Oenothera kunthiana) is a showy, short-lived perennial that blooms from late spring to early summer. It has bright yellow flowers that close tightly during the day, giving way to a delicate, sweet, lemony scent in the evening that attracts a variety of pollinators. The plant's aromatic, silver-green foliage is densely packed, creating a full look in a small space. This drought tolerant plant provides lasting winter colour in gardens, preferring full-sun in well-draining soil. Its vibrant blooms make it a stunning addition to any garden and a bright and cheerful highlight to a patio or balcony.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 10

Flowers:

Whitish to pink Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

For evening primrose, mild watering 2 to 3 times a week should be fine. Water deeply and thoroughly before allowing the topsoil to dry out. During the summer, water in the morning every 2 to 3 days to ensure the soil stays moist; during the winter, water only when the top few inches of soil feel dry to the touch. The evening primrose should receive about 1 inch of water each time. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot.

sunlight

Evening primrose (Oenothera kunthiana) is best suited for growing in full sun. It thrives in consistently sunny spots, with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Doing best in early morning sun and avoiding any mid-day heat, the evening primrose appreciates afternoon shade in hot climates. When planted in part shade it may not flower as profusely or develop as large a plant as in full sunlight.

pruning

When it comes to pruning evening primrose (Oenothera kunthiana), it is important to trim the foliage near the base of the plant as well as any dead stems or foliage after flowering. Pruning should be done in the early spring once the threat of frost has passed. During this time, you should examine the plant for any signs of damage or disease. Discard any dead or damaged foliage or stems and trim away any growth that has become lanky or straggly. Cut back the foliage to about 2-3 inches from the ground to ensure healthy new growth in the upcoming season. Additionally, you may need to trim any tendrils that have spread too far away from the main plant. Trim these tendrils back to within the clump of the main foliage.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Oenothera kunthiana typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map