While you might think of evening primroses as tall, somewhat weedy plants, this species is quite the opposite! Staying about a foot tall, this sprawling plants forms a great groundcover and will produce numerous showy yellow flowers. Its flowers will bloom in the afternoon and attract moths, particularly sphinx moths. Plant in a mass for a stunning display when in bloom.
Pollinator Type
Moths
Plant Type
Herbaceous perennial
Zone
3 to 9
Height
1 ft
Spread
1 ft
Light
Full Sun
Moisture Requirement
Dry Soil
Bloom Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
May, June, July, August
Design Considerations
Great for edges due to its short, sprawling habit.
Care and Maintenance
Prefers dry, poor soils.
Pest and Diseases
No major issues.
Establishment and Propagation
Start from seed after 60 days of cold, moist stratification, or start from plugs in either spring or fall. Will reseed.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available.
Alternative Plant Selections
Showy Evening Primrose
Native Status
Illinois native, rare to central Illinois.
Fall Color
Insignificant
Growth habit
Herbaceous perennial with stems that sprawl on the ground, making it a possible groundcover.
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
