Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Common Names : Sundrops

Status

Native throughout North America.

Listed

Common

Toxicity

toxic to dogs and cats

Sun

Full sun to partial sun

Soil/Habitat

Found on disturbed sites such as abandoned pastures and fields, sand prairies, and dunes. Thrives in poor quality soils. Rocky and sandy soils.

Water

dry to medium. Well-drained

Dimensions

Height – 2 – 5 feet

Width – 2 – 3 feet

Flowers

late July to September. Flowers open at night and close by noon the following day.

Notes

Flowers attract a variety of moths due to the night-blooming nature of the plant. The Sphinx moth particularly likes Common Evening Primrose. The nectar and pollen attract native bees and hummingbirds. Seeds are enjoyed by birds, especially Goldfinches.