Oenothera speciosa
perennialN. America Native

Pink Evening Primrose

Oenothera speciosa

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Oenothera speciosa, commonly known as Pink Evening Primrose or Showy Evening Primrose, is a rhizomatous perennial noted for its cup-shaped, white to pink flowers. It is known for its vigorous, spreading habit. Fragrant flowers, up to 3 inches wide, open in the evening or on cloudy days and fade to a deeper pink as they age. It can be an aggressive spreader in ideal conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesOenothera speciosa offers stunning, fragrant pink flowers that attract pollinators, making it a beautiful addition to sunny borders and wildflower gardens.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance reduces watering needs, and it requires minimal maintenance once established.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist during rooting process.
  3. Water regularly during the growing season, avoiding waterlogging.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, organic fertilizer for vibrant blooms.
  5. Prune spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout summer.
  6. Divide mature plants in early spring or fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for optimal growth and flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply but infrequently to promote deep roots 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming period
  • Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots during peak flowering
  • Refrain from fertilizing with high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny border with vibrant, showy flowersWildflower meadow for ecological benefitsDrought-tolerant xeriscape feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Echinacea Russian sage Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pink Evening Primrose questions

What zones can Pink Evening Primrose grow in?

Pink Evening Primrose is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pink Evening Primrose deer resistant?

Yes β€” Pink Evening Primrose is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pink Evening Primrose bloom?

Pink Evening Primrose typically blooms in late spring to summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pink Evening Primrose need full sun?

Pink Evening Primrose does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Pink Evening Primrose drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Pink Evening Primrose handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Pink Evening Primrose with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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