Contents
Description
Oenothera Engelmannii, commonly known as Engelmann’s Evening Primrose, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Onagraceae family. It is native to the central and western part of North America, including the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The plant can grow up to 1-3 feet tall and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. The plant produces yellow flowers with four petals that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Oenothera |
Appearance
Engelmann’s Evening Primrose has a basal rosette of leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 6 inches long. The stem of the plant is hairy and erect. The leaves along the stem are smaller and alternate. The flowers of the plant are about 2 inches in diameter and have four bright yellow petals. The flowers bloom at night and attract moths and other nocturnal insects for pollination. The plant produces round and hairy capsules that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Engelmann’s Evening Primrose requires moderate watering during the growing season. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should not be overwatered.
Fertilization
The plant does not require heavy fertilization. Applying a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can improve the plant’s growth and flower production.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate hot and dry conditions but may require some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
Engelmann’s Evening Primrose can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Engelmann’s Evening Primrose is relatively disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Engelmann’s Evening Primrose is native to the central and western part of North America, including the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. The plant can be found in grasslands, prairies, and open woods.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Engelmann’s Evening Primrose be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Make sure to use well-draining soil and provide moderate watering.
Q: Does Engelmann’s Evening Primrose attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces flowers that attract moths and other nocturnal insects for pollination.
Q: How often should Engelmann’s Evening Primrose be fertilized?
A: Applying a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can improve the plant’s growth and flower production.
Q: Does Engelmann’s Evening Primrose require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but deadheading the spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Related Plants
- Oenothera biennis
- Oenothera macrocarpa
- Oenothera missouriensis
- Oenothera speciosa
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OEEN
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/primrose/engelmann-primrose-info.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/oenothera_engelmannii.shtml
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276693
