Evening Primrose, Missouri

Missouri Evening Primrose (Oenothera macrocarpa)
Also known as: Bigfruit Evening Primrose, Ozark Sundrop

Missouri Evening Primrose is a striking native wildflower celebrated for its large, lemon-yellow flowers that bloom at dusk and fade by mid-morning. Native to the Ozark and central U.S. plains, this low-growing perennial spreads gracefully along the ground, producing spectacular blooms all summer long. Its drought tolerance, deep taproot, and bright pollinator-friendly flowers make it a standout for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and native wildflower meadows.

Key Characteristics

• Showy, Night-Blooming Flowers for Moths and Bees
  Blooming from May through August, Missouri Evening Primrose opens its large, satiny yellow flowers in the evening, making it a vital nectar source for nocturnal moths, native bees, and evening-flying pollinators. Each flower lasts just one night, but new blooms appear daily throughout the season.

• Drought-Tolerant and Deeply Rooted
  Adapted to dry prairies and rocky soils, this species has a deep taproot that allows it to thrive in hot, dry conditions with minimal water. It is an ideal low-maintenance choice for xeriscapes, native prairie restorations, and gravel gardens.

• Edible and Medicinal Uses – Roots and Seeds
  The roots and seeds of evening primrose species have traditional medicinal uses. The seeds are a source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), known for its anti-inflammatory properties. While Oenothera biennis is more commonly harvested for medicinal oil, O. macrocarpa shares similar historical use, though less commonly cultivated for this purpose.

• Low-Growing Groundcover for Edges and Slopes
  With its sprawling habit, narrow leaves, and architectural seed pods, this plant excels in rock gardens, retaining walls, and dry slopes. It forms a tidy mound that doesn’t overwhelm its neighbors, and its showy blooms light up the landscape from early to late summer.

Product Details

• Native range: Central United States (Ozarks, Great Plains)

• Plant life cycle: Perennial

• Sun requirements: Full sun

• Soil requirements: Dry to medium, well-drained

• Mature height: 6–12 inches

• Bloom time: May to August

• Bloom color: Bright lemon-yellow

• USDA Hardiness zones: 4–8

Missouri Evening Primrose is a low-growing native gem with showstopping blooms and exceptional drought resilience. Perfect for wildflower meadows, sunny borders, and pollinator pathways in tough, dry soils.