Nuttall's evening primrose (Oenothera nuttallii)

Also known as: Yellow Evening Primrose, Nuttall's Evening Primrose

Nuttall's evening primrose features tall, slender stems and delicate white flowers that transition to pink as they age. These fragrant blooms open at dusk, attracting nighttime pollinators. The plant thrives in dry, sandy habitats and is well-adapted to poor soil conditions. Its lance-shaped leaves form a rosette at the base, contributing to its resilience. This perennial's tough nature enables it to survive and flourish in the demanding conditions of prairie environments.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Nuttall's evening primrose

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 91 cm

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Nuttall's evening primrose

Quickly Identify Nuttall's evening primrose

The plant can be identified by its lance-shaped leaves and tall, slender stems. The large yellow flowers, which open in the evening, are a key identifying feature.

Scientific Classification of Nuttall's evening primrose

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Myrtales

Family

Evening primrose

Genus

Evening Primrose

Species

Nuttall's evening primrose

Planting and Growing of Nuttall's evening primrose

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Nuttall's evening primrose?

When watering Oenothera nuttallii, aim to moisten the soil deeply without flooding it. The goal is to mimic the natural conditions of light, periodic rainfalls, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Typically, 250 ml is sufficient for a healthy soak that will drain well, promoting robust root growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Nuttall's evening primrose? ›

What should I do if my Nuttall's evening primrose is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Nuttall's evening primrose? ›

How to save an overwatered Nuttall's evening primrose? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Nuttall's evening primrose?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Prefers full sun, with 6-8 hours ideal. Ensures vigorous flowering and robust structure, maximizing its ornamental appeal and resilience to environmental stressors.

Why is full sun preferred? ›

What if only partial sun is available? ›

How to ensure consistent lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Nuttall's evening primrose?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

Oenothera nuttallii thrives best in temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F. This range ensures optimal photosynthesis and nutrient absorption, promoting healthy growth and vibrant flowers.

What Soil is Best for Nuttall's evening primrose?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Oenothera nuttallii thrives in well-drained soils that allow excess water to swiftly pass through. This prevents root rot and ensures the plant receives necessary oxygen efficiently, promoting vibrant growth. Rich, nutrient-filled soils support Oenothera nuttallii's vigorous blooming. The abundance of essential nutrients fosters robust foliage and encourages prolific flowering. While this plant prefers moderate moisture, it's crucial to balance between dryness and wetness. Consistent moderate moisture supports healthy development and extended blooming periods.

How to Fertilize Nuttall's evening primrose?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Oenothera nuttallii, use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer. Mix 1 tablespoon (about 15 grams) per gallon of water. For the slow-release type, apply 1 cup (about 240 ml) around the base of the plant, ensuring even distribution.

How to Prune Nuttall's evening primrose?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying flowers that have faded or died. Cutting these off will direct the plant's energy into healthier shoots and fresh blooms. Make each cut above a healthy leaf node or bud. This encourages leafy growth, supports well-branched structures, and ultimately results in a more floriferous display. Carefully trim stems that extend beyond the plant's desired shape. This step helps to keep the plant compact and encourages bushier growth patterns rather than leggy or sparse structures. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Nuttall's evening primrose plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Choose a well-draining potting mix or garden bed. Loosen the soil thoroughly and remove any weeds or debris. The soil should be moderately fertile for optimal seed germination or cutting establishment.

Scatter seeds on the soil surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil or sand. Water gently to moisten the soil without washing away the seeds, and ensure good sunlight exposure for germination.

Select a healthy plant and use pruning shears to cut a 6-inch section of stem below a leaf node. Remove leaves from the lower half, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with moist soil.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Nuttall's evening primrose plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Oenothera nuttallii typically signals a need for repotting when its roots begin to outgrow the pot, emerging from the drainage holes or wrapping around the root ball. Yellowing leaves or poor growth can also indicate it's time for new soil and space. Spring, with its mild temperatures and growing season, is ideal to give your plant a fresh start.

When selecting a pot for Oenothera nuttallii, ensure it's 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give roots room to expand. Opt for a pot with ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and root rot. Terracotta pots are advantageous as they wick moisture away, perfect for this species' sandy soil preference.

Select well-drained sandy soil for Oenothera nuttallii, mimicking its natural habitat. A blend containing equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite ensures optimal drainage. This soil mix not only supports root health but also encourages robust flower production.