Missouri Evening Primrose
Oenothera missouriensis
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate, drought tolerant
Humidity
Prefers dry to moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Oenothera missouriensis, commonly known as Missouri evening primrose, is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its rosette of basal leaves and tall stems bearing four-petaled yellow flowers that open in the evening. This species is notable for its adaptability to dry, sandy soils and its ability to attract pollinators such as moths, making it a valuable addition to native and xeriscape gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Mist cuttings in a humid environment for propagation.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring.
Pro Tip
Allow soil to dry out between watering for healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems after flowering
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Overwater which can cause root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
- Don’t disturb roots during active growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Missouri Evening Primrose questions
What zones can Missouri Evening Primrose grow in?
Missouri Evening Primrose is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Missouri Evening Primrose deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Missouri Evening Primrose, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Missouri Evening Primrose bloom?
Missouri Evening Primrose typically blooms in late spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Missouri Evening Primrose need full sun?
Missouri Evening Primrose does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Missouri Evening Primrose drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Missouri Evening Primrose handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Oenothera to compare
Pink Evening Primrose
Oenothera speciosa
Missouri Evening Primrose Giant Evening Primrose
Oenothera macrocarpa
Evening Primrose
Oenothera biennis
Sundrops
Oenothera fruticosa 'Native Yellow Bellflower'
Ozark Sundrop
Oenothera missouriensis 'Ozark Sundrop'
Siskiyou Evening Primrose
Oenothera speciosa 'Siskiyou'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Missouri 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.
