Bloom Color

Interesting Notes

Oenothera comes from the Greek "Oïnos", wine and "ther", wild animal : for the Ancients, it designated a plant the roots of which, soaked in wine, would have enabled to tame wild beasts. According to the following German saying of the 18th century : "a pound of the root of evening primrose gives more strength than a quintal of beef", the root of evening primrose was thought to be very nutritive. The Amerindians used it differently : they used it to rub their moccasins before hunting, to mask their smell and get closer to the animals. One of the magic powers of evening primrose was actually to make hunters lucky.

Growing and Maintenance Tips

O. fremontii is happiest in hot, bright, dry, well-drained areas. Although it seems to be quite happy in any condition as long as its provided with enough sun. Sprawling clump habit. Cut back foliage to promote a new flush of growth, to prolong flowering season. Propagate by division or cuttings in early summer. Occasionally it will self sow. Best used as a border, edging, rock gardens and mass plantings for full effect.