Also known as Candlestick · Common Evening Primrose · Evening Primose
Common evening-primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a biennial herb known for its fragrant, yellow flowers that open in the evening. It's adaptable and self-seeds readily.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates some dryness. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Cold-hardy and tolerates heat well. Prefers temperate climates. Protect from extreme frost when young.
Low
25% intensity
Generally self-sufficient; light feeding in spring if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogged soil. Allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Established plants are relatively drought-tolerant.
Consistent moisture promotes better flowering and seed production.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired. Cut back the plant to the ground in late autumn or early spring to tidy its appearance and stimulate new growth.
Remove any diseased or damaged foliage promptly.
Easily propagated by seeds sown directly outdoors in spring or autumn. Can also be grown from division of established clumps in spring. Cuttings can be taken from basal shoots in early spring.
Container-grown plants may need repotting every 1-2 years. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring before new growth begins. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Evening-Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
Where Common Evening-Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Oenothera |
| Species | Oenothera biennis |
Similar in genus Oenothera
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
