Whitest Evening Primrose

(Oenothera albicaulis)

Whitest Evening Primrose (Oenothera albicaulis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Oenothera albicaulis, commonly known as Whitest Evening Primrose, is an annual herb that is native to arid and semi-arid regions, including prairies, grasslands, and sandy soils of the Southwestern United States and Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters). This plant is characterized by its low-growing rosette form and lance-shaped leaves. The Whitest Evening Primrose produces large, fragrant white flowers that open in the evening and close by the next midday, blooming in the spring and early summer. The flowers are particularly showy and are known for attracting pollinators such as moths and bees.

The Whitest Evening Primrose is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used in wildflower meadows and as a border plant in dry garden settings. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and can tolerate low to medium water conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, overwatering can lead to root rot. It is also important to note that this plant can self-seed prolifically under ideal conditions, which may be considered invasive in some areas outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions, including prairies, grasslands, and sandy soils

Other Names

Common Names: Prairie Evening-Primrose, White-Stem Evening-Primrose

Scientific Names: , Oenothera albicaulis, Oenothera nuttallii, Anogra albicaulis, Anogra ctenophylla, Anogra leptophylla, Oenothera ctenophylla, Oenothera leptophylla, Oenothera pinnatifida, Anogra douglasiana

GBIF Accepted Name: Oenothera albicaulis Fras.