Hooker's evening primrose
oenothera elata
Also known as: ["Hooker's evening primrose","tall evening primrose"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant known for its bright yellow flowers that open in the evening and last until midday the next day.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Oenothera |
| Botanical Name: | Oenothera elata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); 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 adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; supplement with grow lights if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates heat but may struggle in prolonged frost.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; adjust watering in heat waves; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; use organic options like compost tea for gentle nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- 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 soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent blooms; trim back to a healthy leaf node or bud; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back after flowering to rejuvenate.
Tools
Clean bypass pruners, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts first; make clean cuts.
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 holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or drought; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or dieback; flowering may be delayed or inhibited.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers; move potted plants indoors during freezes; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf drop, or reduced flowering; may require increased watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; 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 active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOenothera elata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is safe for feline interaction and ingestion in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOenothera elata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicOenothera elata, commonly known as Hooker's evening primrose, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant is generally safe for handling and consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do the flowers of Oenothera elata open?
A: The flowers typically open in the evening and last until midday the next day.
Q: Is Oenothera elata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common problems with Oenothera elata?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and rotting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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