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Description
Oenothera Biennis, also known as Common Evening Primrose or King’s Cure-all, is a biennial plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the Onagraceae family and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant has a taproot system and produces a basal rosette of leaves during its first year of growth. In the second year, the plant produces a tall spike with yellow flowers that bloom in the evening and attract pollinators such as moths.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Oenothera |
Appearance
Oenothera Biennis has lance-shaped leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are green and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are bright yellow and have four petals that are arranged in a cross shape. The petals are up to 2 inches long and the flowers have a mild, sweet fragrance. The plant produces a capsule fruit that contains numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Oenothera Biennis prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the fall.Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Oenothera Biennis prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss if it is too heavy or too alkaline.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Oenothera Biennis grows in hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oenothera Biennis is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. It is also vulnerable to leaf miners and aphids. To prevent these problems, avoid overhead watering, keep the area around the plant clean, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed.
Habitat
Oenothera Biennis is native to North America and can be found in meadows, fields, and open woods. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oenothera Biennis a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Oenothera Biennis is a biennial plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years.Q: When do the flowers of Oenothera Biennis bloom?
A: The flowers of Oenothera Biennis bloom in the evening and last until the next morning.Q: Can Oenothera Biennis grow in containers?
A: Yes, Oenothera Biennis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-drained.Q: Does Oenothera Biennis have any medicinal uses?
A: Oenothera Biennis has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as PMS, eczema, and arthritis. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Related Plants
- Oenothera Berlandieri
- Oenothera Caespitosa
- Oenothera Lamarckiana
- Oenothera Speciosa
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Oenothera Biennis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288955
- The Old Farmer’s Almanac. (2021). Common Evening Primrose. Retrieved from https://www.almanac.com/plant/common-evening-primrose
- RHS. (n.d.). Oenothera Biennis. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17296/Oenothera-biennis/Details
