Evening Primrose
Oenothera biennis
Evening Primrose is a fascinating biennial wildflower whose fragrant lemon-yellow flowers unfurl at dusk in about one minute. Native across North America, its seeds produce medicinal oil and the flowers attract night-flying moths.
Onagraceae (Evening Primrose family)
Summer to early fall (June-September)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: berry clusters (elderberry)s and cimicifugas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Evening Primrose symbolizes the magic of twilight and nocturnal beauty. The dramatic evening opening of flowers (which can be observed in real-time in about 60 seconds) represents transformation and the unveiling of hidden beauty. In the Victorian language of flowers, it meant "inconstancy" because flowers open at night and close by day - the reverse of most blooms. However, it also represents silent or hidden love that reveals itself in darkness. The medicinal reputation earned names like "King's Cure-All," symbolizing healing and hope. The genus name Oenothera possibly comes from Greek "oinos" (wine) and "theras" (seeker), referencing ancient use of roots in wine.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil
Well-drained, Average, Rocky, Sandy, Poor soil tolerant
Expert Growing Tips
Biennial: forms basal rosette first year, flowers second year
Direct sow seeds in spring or fall; germinates in 4 weeks
Self-sows readily and naturalizes easily - can become weedy
Deadhead to prevent excessive self-seeding
Flowers open at dusk (unfurling takes about 1 minute - fascinating to watch)
Flowers remain open through morning, closing when hit by sun
Mild lemon fragrance attracts night-flying moths
Very low maintenance and tolerates poor conditions
Drought-tolerant once established
All parts historically used as food by Native Americans
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower and cottage gardens
- Herb gardens and medicinal plantings
- Borders and naturalized areas
- Moth and pollinator gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Meadow plantings
- Evening gardens (for nocturnal blooms)
Traditional Uses
- Seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) used medicinally since 1600s
- Evening primrose oil commercially cultivated in 15 countries
- Clinical studies suggest benefits for: eczema, asthma, migraines, heart disease, arthritis, PMS, inflammation
- Traditional uses: fever reduction, wounds, eye inflammation, digestive issues
- Roots and young shoots edible when cooked
- Seeds eaten by birds and small mammals
- Common names "King's Cure-All" and "Fever Plant" reflect medicinal reputation
- Consult healthcare provider before medicinal use
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Evening Primrose
why does evening primrose bloom at night?
Evening Primrose blooms at night to attract nocturnal pollinators, especially moths, which are drawn by the flowers' lemon fragrance and bright yellow color visible in moonlight.
is evening primrose oil the same as the flower?
Yes, evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of Oenothera biennis. It's rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and used for various health conditions.
how fast do evening primrose flowers open?
Evening Primrose flowers unfurl in about 60 seconds at dusk - a fascinating transformation you can actually watch happen in real-time each evening.
is evening primrose edible?
Yes, all parts are edible. Native Americans ate the roots and young shoots when cooked. The plant has a peppery, slightly sweet flavor and was used as both food and medicine.
what does evening primrose symbolize?
Evening Primrose symbolizes inconstancy (opening at night, closing by day), silent love, nocturnal beauty, and healing. It represents transformation and beauty revealed in darkness.
will evening primrose take over my garden?
Evening Primrose can self-sow aggressively and become weedy in ideal conditions. Deadhead spent flowers to prevent excessive seeding, or plant where naturalization is acceptable.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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