Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as Missouri Evening Primrose, is a striking native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, glades, and rocky slopes, primarily in the central and southern U.S. While uncommon in Illinois, it can thrive in full sun and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils, making it a great choice for rock gardens, dry native landscapes, and pollinator plantings.
This low-growing plant typically reaches up to 1.5 feet tall and forms a spreading clump. It features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and produces large, lemon-yellow, four-petaled flowers that open in late afternoon and remain open through the night, often fading by the next morning. Blooming from early to mid-summer, the flowers attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and early-flying bees. One of its most distinctive features is the large, winged seed pods that develop after flowering.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Oenothera macrocarpa is an eye-catching and drought-tolerant species that offers vibrant color, supports pollinators, and adds architectural interest with its bold seed capsules. It pairs well with companions like Butterfly Weed, Blue Grama Grass, and Hoary Vervain in dry, sunny plantings designed for resilience and visual appeal.
Oenothera macrocarpa, commonly known as Missouri Evening Primrose, is a striking native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, glades, and rocky slopes, primarily in the central and southern U.S. While uncommon in Illinois, it can thrive in full sun and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils, making it a great choice for rock gardens, dry native landscapes, and pollinator plantings.
This low-growing plant typically reaches up to 1.5 feet tall and forms a spreading clump. It features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and produces large, lemon-yellow, four-petaled flowers that open in late afternoon and remain open through the night, often fading by the next morning. Blooming from early to mid-summer, the flowers attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and early-flying bees. One of its most distinctive features is the large, winged seed pods that develop after flowering.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Oenothera macrocarpa is an eye-catching and drought-tolerant species that offers vibrant color, supports pollinators, and adds architectural interest with its bold seed capsules. It pairs well with companions like Butterfly Weed, Blue Grama Grass, and Hoary Vervain in dry, sunny plantings designed for resilience and visual appeal.
Bloom: early to mid-summer
Habitats: hill prairies; limestone glades
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: dry
Plant type (height): forb (up to 1.5 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: rocky; sandy
