Lindheimer's evening primrose
oenothera lindheimeri
Also known as: ["Texas primrose","White evening primrose"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to Texas and Louisiana, known for its fragrant, white, cup-shaped flowers that open in the evening and last until mid-morning.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Oenothera |
| Botanical Name: | Oenothera lindheimeri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers regularly during blooming season; prune lightly in early spring.
- 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 full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries 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 excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; ensure good air flow.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method 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: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; deadhead regularly; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
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 dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Can wilt, drop buds, or show leaf scorch in excessive heat, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide afternoon shade if possible; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; cease in winter.
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 lindheimeri is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicOenothera lindheimeri is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicOenothera lindheimeri is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Oenothera lindheimeri require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: When does it bloom?
A: It blooms from late spring to early fall, with flowers opening in the evening and closing by mid-morning.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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