Yellow Evening Primrose

(Oenothera flava)

Yellow Evening Primrose (Oenothera flava)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Oenothera flava image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Oenothera flava, commonly known as Yellow Evening Primrose, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands, grasslands, and desert scrub in the Southwestern USA and Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 0.3-0.4 feet (0.09-0.1 meters) and spreads 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) wide. The plant forms a low-growing rosette of lance-shaped leaves, and its bright yellow flowers bloom in the spring and are quite showy, opening in the evening and closing by the next midday.

Yellow Evening Primrose is valued for its drought tolerance and the vibrant color it adds to gardens. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, and native plant landscapes. This species thrives in well-drained soils and is adaptable to various soil types, from sandy to loamy. It is also known for attracting pollinators such as bees and moths. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.4 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, and desert scrub

Other Names

Common Names: Long-Tube Evening Primrose, Long-Tube Evening-Primrose, Yellow Evening-Primrose, Yellow Eveningprimrose

Scientific Names: , Oenothera flava, Lavauxia palustris,

GBIF Accepted Name: Oenothera flava (A.Nelson) Garrett