Oenothera biennis, Common Evening Primrose

Popular

Historical Uses:

The Cherokee tribe was reported to use O. biennis as a food source. They cooked leaves for greens, boiled roots like potatoes, and ate seeds.

 

Notes:

O. biennis produce numerous seed pods containing many viable seeds and are very hardy plants. Lower leaves often have a slight red tint. Host plant to the Primrose Moth (Schinia florida), most likely to be found in the Northern and Western United States.

  • Listing ID: 1180
  • Duration: Biennial
  • Soil Moisture: 1-5 (dry to wet): 1-3
  • Stratification: No stratification required, light required for germination
  • Bloom Time: July-October
  • Family: Onagraceae (Evening Primrose Family)
  • Sunlight Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
  • Latin Name: Oenothera biennis
  • Common Name: Common Evening Primrose
  • Eco-Region: 251