Back to species databaseForb / Wildflower

Missouri Evening Primrose

Oenothera macrocarpa

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Category
Forb / Wildflower
Sun
Full to Partial
Soil moisture
Medium-Dry to Dry
Bloom time
May–Aug
Bloom color
Yellow

About Missouri Evening Primrose

Missouri Evening Primrose is a show-stopping native perennial that proves some of the best things come in low-growing packages. Reaching only 8 to 12 inches in height, this sprawling plant features massive, satiny yellow flowers that can measure up to 5 inches across—an incredible size for such a compact species. The blooms open in the late afternoon and glow brilliantly against the narrow, silver-green foliage from May through August. Native to limestone glades and rocky bluffs of the central United States, it is perfectly adapted to dry, well-drained, often calcareous soils and full sun. One of its most distinctive features is the large, four-winged seed pods that follow the flowers, which are often used in dried arrangements. It is a favorite of hawkmoths, which are the primary pollinators of its evening-opening blossoms. Drought-tolerant and incredibly hardy, Missouri Evening Primrose is an ideal choice for rock gardens, borders, or any sunny spot where high-impact color and unique textures are desired.

Native range

Native to 9 states:

ArkansasIllinoisKansasMissouriNebraskaOklahomaTennesseeTexasWyoming

County range map

BONAP county-level native range map for Oenothera macrocarpa

Range map courtesy of BONAP (Biota of North America Program).

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