Oenothera macrocarpa
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
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | ||
| Autumn | Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed Hardiness
H5Botanical 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
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.