PerennialsOenothera biennis
Evening Primrose
Evening Primrose is a graceful biennial that opens its bright yellow flowers on warm summer evenings. The blooms release a sweet scent that attracts moths. From June to September, fresh flowers appear continuously along the upright stems. The plant self-seeds and naturalises beautifully in informal gardens.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 60–120 cm
- Spread
- 30–50 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- moths, bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Evening Primrose is exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrives even in sandy, lean ground. Watering is seldom necessary. Leave seed pods if you want the plant to self-sow.
Pruning tips
Cut stems after flowering to prevent self-seeding, or leave them for winter silhouette and bird food. Clear old stems in spring if needed.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
PerennialsAchillea millefolium
Yarrow
Yarrow is a robust native perennial with finely divided, fern-like foliage and flat flower clusters in yellow, white, or pink. The plant blooms prolifically from June to September, attracting countless pollinators. Yarrow is remarkably drought-resistant and fits almost any garden style, from prairie borders to wildflower meadows.
PerennialsRudbeckia fulgida
Black-eyed Susan
Black-eyed Susan blooms from July through October with radiant golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center. The plant is virtually indestructible, spreads gradually, and suits large borders and prairie-style gardens. After flowering, the seed heads provide food for birds.