Sun Exposure: Sun, Part Sun

Soil Moisture: Medium-Wet, Medium, Medium-Dry

Soil Type: Loam, Sand, Clay

Height: 1.5 - 2 feet

Spread: 2 feet

Blooms: May, June

Root: Rhizomes

Habitat: Prairies, Abandoned pastures, Marsh edges

Landscape uses: Pollinator garden, Naturalized areas, Rain gardens

Wildlife Value: The flowers are pollinated primarily by long-tongued bees, butterflies, and skippers. Host Plant: Momphid moths

Seed Origin: Winona, MN (Prairie Moon seed supplier)

Germination Code: A

Photo credits: #1 by Eric Hunt, #2 by Geolina163

Oenothera pilosella -Prairie Sundrops

Name: Oenothera pilosella -Prairie Sundrops
Price: 6 CAD
Availability: InStock

CA$6.00

Size

Quantity

Prairie Sundrops is a member of the Evening Primrose (Oenothera) family, but this species is actually day-flowering, and emits a pleasant fragrance. This is a short species, getting only to 2 feet. The blooming period occurs during late spring or early summer and lasts about a month. This plant will spread in the right conditions, forming a mat of bright blooms. For strong upright stems, plant Prairie Sundrops in moist soils and near full sun. It can tolerate periods of drought and light shade as well.

The new growth during early spring and older foliage during the fall often acquire reddish tints. The petals have fine translucent lines that radiate from the center of the flower. These lines function as nectar guides, and they are more visible to insects, who see in the ultraviolet spectrum. Large showy stamens are exserted above the petals. Droves of long-tonqued bees, butterflies, and skippers are drawn to the prolific pollen these plants produce.