Missouri Evening Primrose Oenothera macrocarpa
ABOUT
Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as the Missouri evening primrose, is a plant that is noted for its distinctive large, cup-shaped yellow flowers. These blooms often have a delicate, lemony scent that can add an aromatic touch to the surroundings when they open in the evening or on cloudy days. Each flower, despite its fleeting existence – commonly lasting for just a day before wilting – casts a bright spot of color, with its petals set in a distinctive cross formation, which is characteristic of the evening primrose family. The leaves of Missouri evening primrose are equally notable, with their lance-shaped, slightly serrated margins that emanate from the plant's base. They present a grayish-green or bluish-green coloration, providing a subtle backdrop that further accentuates the striking blooms. Leaves may be covered with a fine down-like fuzz, which gives the foliage a soft texture to the touch. Missouri evening primrose emerges from a stout taproot which anchors the plant firmly into the ground and enables it to withstand periods of dry conditions, therefore revealing its adaptability and hardiness. Throughout its blooming season, the Missouri evening primrose garners attention from an assortment of pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds are drawn to its vivid flowers which serve as an important food source for these creatures. In the wild, the plant thrives in environments such as glades, prairies, or rocky outcroppings, where it can often be found basking in the full sun's rays. As the plant matures, it produces fruit in the form of capsules, which contain numerous seeds. These capsules are an important feature of the Missouri evening primrose, contributing to the spread and propagation of the plant. The seeds within have the potential to ensure the ongoing presence of the plant in the landscape, making it a species capable of both enduring and flourishing in its native habitats.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Onagraceae.
Synonyms
Missouri Evening Primrose, Ozark Sundrops, Bigfruit Evening Primrose, Fluttermill, Missouri Primrose.
Common names
Oenothera missouriensis, Oenothera macrocarpa var. fremontii, Oenothera macrocarpa var. incana.
ToxicityTo humans
The Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as the Missouri evening primrose, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities can occur, so it is generally advisable not to ingest plant material that is not intended for human consumption.
To pets
The Missouri evening primrose is not known to be toxic to pets. No significant toxicity has been reported in dogs, cats, or other household pets from ingesting this plant. Nevertheless, pet owners should always monitor their pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental flora due to the potential for individual sensitivities or gastrointestinal upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape beauty: Missouri Evening Primrose adds visual appeal to gardens with its large, yellow flowers.
- Drought tolerance: It is well-adapted to dry conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Pollinator attraction: The flowers provide nectar and pollen for bees and moths, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Erosion control: Its root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
- Wildlife habitat: Provides food and shelter for various insects and small animals, enhancing biodiversity.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Oenothera macrocarpa has been reputed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Analgesic: There are claims that the plant has pain-relieving effects.
- Skin conditions: The oil from Oenothera macrocarpa seeds is sometimes used in the treatment of certain skin conditions, such as eczema.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: The Missouri evening primrose, with its large, showy flowers, is often used as a subject in macro and nature photography.
- Education: This plant can be used in educational settings such as schools or botanical gardens to teach about pollination and native plant species.
- Natural dye: The flowers and roots of the Missouri evening primrose can potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or paper.
- Ornamental use: Due to its large yellow blossoms, the Missouri evening primrose is commonly planted in gardens for aesthetic purposes.
- Wildlife habitat: The plant can provide food and shelter for native wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Erosion control: The Missouri evening primrose's root system helps stabilize soil, making it useful for controlling erosion on slopes.
- Night garden feature: The blooms open in the evening, making them an interesting feature in a night-blooming or moon garden.
- Eco-friendly lawn alternative: The low-growing and spreading habit of Missouri evening primrose makes it a candidate for a flowering lawn alternative that requires less maintenance and water.
- Perfumery: Though not common, the fragrance of the blooms could potentially be used in making perfumes or scented oils.
- Artistic inspiration: The unique shape and color of the Missouri evening primrose can serve as an inspiration for artists and designers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Missouri Evening Primrose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Missouri Evening Primrose is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Peace and Healing: Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as the Missouri Evening Primrose, often symbolizes tranquility and the soothing of emotions. Its gentle appearance and propensity to open at night suggest a calming presence during times of stress or discomfort.
- Patience: As a plant that blooms in the evening and often into the night, it represents patience and adaptability, reflecting an organism that operates on its own schedule and waits for the right moment to reveal its beauty.
- Resilience and Survival: This plant can thrive in tough environments, symbolizing resilience and an individual's ability to survive and prosper against odds.
- Femininity: The soft, supple petals and nurturing aspect of opening at night to welcome nocturnal pollinators can represent femininity and motherhood— aspects that nurture and create life.
WaterFor the Missouri Evening Primrose, watering should be thorough, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In general, provide about one inch of water weekly, especially during the hot, dry summer months. Less frequent watering promotes deeper root growth and helps the plant to tolerate drought conditions. During the spring and fall, adjust watering to half a gallon per week, depending on rainfall and soil moisture levels. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot in these drought-tolerant plants.
LightThe Missouri Evening Primrose thrives in full sun, which means it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for the plant is in an area that gets unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, as these conditions help it produce its vibrant yellow flowers. Ensure it is planted in a location where it is not overshadowed by taller plants or structures to achieve optimal growth and blooming.
TemperatureThe Missouri Evening Primrose is tolerant of high summer temperatures, but it prefers cooler conditions overall. It can survive in temperatures ranging from just above freezing to approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which promotes the best growth and flowering. Ensure it is planted in a location that avoids the extremes of winter chill and the peak heat of summer.
PruningPruning the Missouri Evening Primrose is primarily done to remove spent flowers and to tidy up the plant. Deadheading, or cutting off the faded flowers, encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prevents self-seeding if not desired. Perform light pruning throughout the blooming season as needed. The best time for a more thorough pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Missouri Evening Primrose thrives in well-draining soil mixed with sand and loam, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Create a mix using 1 part sand, 1 part loam, and 1 part garden compost to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingMissouri Evening Primrose often does not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years due to its preference for a stable environment.
Humidity & MistingMissouri Evening Primrose is tolerant of low humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements, making it suitable for typical outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full sun and well-draining soil for Missouri Evening Primrose.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; tolerate drought and poor soils.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA.
Life cycleMissouri Evening Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa) begins its life cycle as a seed that requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination, the seedling establishes a root system and grows into a rosette of leaves close to the ground. Over time, it develops a deep taproot and begins vegetative growth, forming a mound of foliage. The plant then enters the flowering stage in late spring or early summer, producing large, yellow, showy flowers that open in the evening and close by the next noon. Pollinated flowers give way to seed capsules, and once mature, the seeds are dispersed, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant is a perennial, thus it will continue this cycle for several years, dying back to the ground in winter and re-emerging from the taproot in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as the Missouri Evening Primrose, is by seed. To propagate by seed, you should ideally sow the seeds in late winter or early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. The seeds should be scattered over a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. They require ample sunlight to germinate, so placing them in a sunny position is crucial. Water the seeds gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take anywhere from two to three weeks. Once seedlings have reached a suitable size and the threat of frost is completely gone, they can be transplanted outdoors to their permanent positions.
