Pink Evening Primrose
oenothera rosea
Also known as: ["Pink Sundrops","Pink Primrose"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant known for its vibrant pink flowers that bloom in the evening and fade by morning.
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 rosea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid over-amending with organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in mild climates; sensitive to frost.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from frost; adjust watering in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop buds or leaves.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOenothera rosea is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOenothera rosea is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOenothera rosea, commonly known as the pink evening primrose, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption and does not produce any known adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Oenothera rosea require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Oenothera rosea?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Oenothera rosea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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