Evening primrose (Oenothera mollissima)
Care, watering, light and tips for Evening primrose on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Onagraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Evening primrose
Oenothera mollissima, commonly known as the Softest Evening Primrose, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Onagraceae family. It is characterized by its soft, velvety leaves and bright yellow flowers that open at dusk, creating a nocturnal spectacle. It's ideal for rock gardens, path borders, or as part of a pollinator garden, adding a wild and luminous touch.
Native range
South America, including Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil.
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure for abundant flowering, though it tolerates light partial shade. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it is quite drought-tolerant. It requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or stony. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Evening primrose
- Warning signs
- Wilted, yellowed, or spotted leaves, soft stems. May indicate over/underwatering or pests.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If soggy, aerate and reduce watering. Look for pests.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, which rots its roots. Also prolonged drought or lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted. Act quickly to correct watering and sun exposure.