Pink evening primrose
oenothera speciosa
Also known as: ["Showy evening primrose","Mexican primrose"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to North America, known for its fragrant, cup-shaped pink flowers that open in the evening.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Oenothera |
| Botanical Name: | Oenothera speciosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers weekly during blooming; trim lightly every 2–3 months if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay mixes; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates heat but may go dormant in extreme cold.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering; provide shade or protection as needed.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plant is dormant; use a low-nitrogen formula to avoid excessive foliage growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back in late fall to tidy up.
Tools
Sharp pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead or diseased parts; cut at an angle; sanitize after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; overcrowding reduces flowering.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root zone is moistened. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or cessation of flowering in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dormancy; prolonged cold can lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may require more frequent watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in intense heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOenothera speciosa is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOenothera speciosa is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOenothera speciosa, commonly known as pink evening primrose, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Oenothera speciosa spread aggressively?
A: Yes, it can spread rapidly via rhizomes and self-seeding, often requiring containment in garden settings.
Q: When does Oenothera speciosa bloom?
A: It typically blooms from late spring to early fall, with flowers opening in the evening and closing by midday.
Q: Is Oenothera speciosa suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, its aggressive spreading habit makes it better suited for garden beds rather than containers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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