Evening primrose
Oenothera biennis · Onagraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant evening primrose: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 60 to 150 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20 °C)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to average
Care
Sunlight
The biennial evening primrose prefers a sunny location for optimal flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will flower less generously. Install it in full sun for at least 6 hours per day for satisfactory results.
Watering
Water moderately during the first few months after planting to encourage rooting. Once established, evening primrose is very tolerant of drought and only needs water during prolonged dry periods. Avoid excess moisture, which promotes rot.
Soil and preparation
This plant adapts to poor, well-drained soils; soils that are too rich or compacted are unsuitable. Prepare the ground by breaking up clods and adding sand if drainage is insufficient. Evening primrose even appreciates dry and rocky environments.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is necessary, as this plant thrives in poor soil. An excess of organic matter or nitrogen stimulates foliage at the expense of flowering. Let nature take its course.
Pruning and cleanup
Remove faded flowers regularly to extend the flowering period. At the end of the cycle (late autumn), cut the stems to ground level. If evening primrose self-seeds the following year, thin out young plants to avoid overcrowding.
Diseases and pests
Evening primrose is very resistant to diseases and pests. Only excess moisture or stagnant water can cause root rot or mildew. Ensure good drainage and sufficient air circulation around the plant.
Did you know?
The biennial evening primrose was used by Native American peoples of North America for medicinal purposes long before being introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Its seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid, a substance of nutritional interest that popularized evening primrose oil as a modern supplement.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Pink evening primroseOenothera speciosa
- Hummingbird trumpetEpilobium canum
- Hardy fuchsiaFuchsia magellanica
- Evening primroseOenothera fruticosa
- Bolivian fuchsiaFuchsia boliviana
- ClockweedOenothera lindheimeri
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.