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Alpine RockeryHerbaceous Perennial

Oenothera macrocarpa
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Ozark sundrops

An herbaceous perennial to 15cm in height, with trailing leafy stems to 30cm in length. Leaves narrowly oblong, with conspicuous silvery midribs; flowers solitary, 10-12cm in width, bright yellow, appearing from late spring to early autumn

Other common names
Missouri primrose
Synonyms
Oenothera missouriensis
Megapterium missouriense
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Yellow Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Onagraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Trailing
Genus

Oenothera can be annuals, biennials or perennials, upright or spreading in habit, with simple or lobed leaves and bowl-shaped, white, yellow or pink flowers over a long period in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
USA, Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; ideal for stony soil. Protect from excessive winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Rock garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Garden edging
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Damage by slugs may be a problem

Diseases

Prone to leaf spots, mildews and root rot

Get involved

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