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Description
Oenothera Calcicola, commonly known as limestone evening primrose, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Onagraceae. This species is native to North America and can be found in limestone glades, prairies, and rocky slopes. The plant has a long blooming period from May to September, producing four-petaled, bright yellow flowers that open in the evening and close during the day. The plant’s flowers emit a sweet fragrance that attracts moths and other nocturnal insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Oenothera |
Appearance
The Oenothera Calcicola plant grows up to 30 inches tall and 18 inches wide, with a basal rosette of leaves that are lance-shaped and grayish-green in color. The leaves are alternate, simple, and hairy, with a length of 3-6 inches and a width of 0.5-1 inch. The plant’s stems are also hairy and reddish-brown in color. The flowers of Oenothera Calcicola are bright yellow, four-petaled, and measure 1-2 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from May to September and have a sweet fragrance that attracts nocturnal insects.
Care Guide
Oenothera Calcicola requires minimal care and is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and heat. However, to ensure the best growth and flowering, follow these care tips:Water: The plant needs moderate watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is well-drained.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: Oenothera Calcicola prefers well-drained, alkaline soil with a pH of 7.0-8.0. Add limestone or dolomite to the soil to increase alkalinity.Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Oenothera Calcicola is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oenothera Calcicola is relatively pest and disease-free. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot diseases. To prevent these diseases, avoid overcrowding the plants, provide good air circulation, and ensure that the soil is well-drained. In case of infestation, treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Oenothera Calcicola is native to North America and can be found in limestone glades, prairies, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained, alkaline soil and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oenothera Calcicola a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Oenothera Calcicola is a perennial plant.Q: How often should I water Oenothera Calcicola?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is well-drained.Q: What is the blooming period of Oenothera Calcicola?
A: The plant has a long blooming period from May to September.Q: What is the hardiness zone of Oenothera Calcicola?
A: Oenothera Calcicola is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Oenothera Calcicola:
- Oenothera fruticosa (narrowleaf evening primrose)
- Oenothera biennis (common evening primrose)
- Oenothera macrocarpa (missouri evening primrose)
- Oenothera pallida (pale evening primrose)
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OECAL
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/evening-primrose/growing-limestone-evening-primrose.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/evening-primrose/limestone-evening-primrose-care.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/limestone-evening-primrose-growing-profile-5073829
