Species dwarf evening primrose
yellow-peach flowers with yellow stamens, olive buds, olive leaves and maroon stems

dwarf evening primrose

Oenothera macrocarpa 'Dwarf Silver'

Oenothera macrocarpa 'Dwarf Silver' or the Dwarf Evening Primrose is an annual flowering plant that produces a profusion of 4-petaled, shining white, buttercup-like flowers on upright, branching stems. The oblong leaves are silvery-green and feature deep lobes and a soft texture. It blooms all summer long, attracting droves of pollinators throughout the day. The plant grows to heights of 12 to 18 inches and spreads about 12 to 18 inches. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil to ensure abundant blooms. Plant in containers or in the flower bed for an elegant splash of silver.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

silver,green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

This plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water it thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In general, they should be watered about once a week when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. During periods of summer heat, they may require water more frequently. Be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. With the right conditions, they may even be able to survive without supplemental watering from time to time.

sunlight

Dwarf evening primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa 'Dwarf Silver') is best suited to full sun. It prefers 6 or more hours of direct sunlight each day and should be protected from strong afternoon sunlight which can scorch the foliage. Placing the plant in an area that receives sun during the morning and early afternoon hours and is shielded from the hottest part of the day is ideal. It is also important to note that the amount of sunlight this species receives can vary depending on the season and location, so be sure to adjust as needed.

pruning

The Dwarf Evening Primrose is a low-maintenance perennial that requires minimal pruning for optimal growth. If required, pruning should be done in Spring just before new growth begins, or in early summer. Light pruning can be used to shape the plant, or to remove any dead or diseased branches. It is best to prune branches no more than 1-third of their total growth, and avoid cutting deep into the center of the clump. Regular pruning also helps foster a strong root system for the plant. A good rule of thumb is to deadhead spent flowers and remove any damaged or dead branches as soon as they are noticed.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The dwarf evening primrose typically starts flowering in May.

Hardiness Map