Evening Primrose, Showy (pack)

Showy Evening Primrose (Oenothera speciosa) is an open-pollinated perennial wildflower that forms a mat of fragrant pink flowers above mounding grey-green foliage. A vigorous day-blooming ground cover, it thrives on dry slopes and spreads readily, so give it room. One pack covers roughly 10 square feet when broadcast.

At a glance

• Variety: Showy evening primrose, Oenothera speciosa (open-pollinated)
• Type: Perennial wildflower and ground cover
• Bloom season: Spring through fall
• Sun: Full sun to part shade
• Planting depth: 1/16 inch
• Germination: 15 to 25 days
• Height at maturity: 12 to 24 inches
• USDA zone: 6 to 10
• Seeding rate: about 125 seeds per square foot (about 1,899 seeds per pack)

Best for

• Ground cover on dry slopes and banks
• Fragrant, low-water wildflower plantings
• Attracting bees, moths, and hummingbirds
• Feeding finches that favor the seed heads
• Naturalized areas where spreading is welcome

How to grow

Sow shallowly at 1/16 inch in fall or spring in a dry location with fast-draining, loose soil. Plants are drought tolerant and need only moderate water. Note that the roots are aggressive and can become invasive, so site this primrose where its spread is an asset rather than a problem.

About Grow Organic

Grow Organic supplies organic and non-GMO seeds, wildflowers, and garden supplies for gardeners who want a chemical-free, productive landscape.

Sold by Grow Organic, based in Grass Valley, California.