Oenothera pilosella

Prairie Sundrops

• Average to moderately wet or moderately dry soils
• Full sun to moderate shade
• 24” tall, 18’ to 24” wide, Spreading
• Spring Blooms
• Ontario Native, Thrives in Meadows and Woodlands

While I’m pretty sure that the Evening Primroses that are quite common in gardens in Eastern Ontario, and that are often given out at plant swaps due to their abundant nature are this species, I started these from seeds from Prairie Moon Nursery to be certain that I’m offering the straight species.

Often mistaken for Ajuga in the early spring, due to their ground-hugging rosettes of rounded burgundy leaves, these shoot up in late May or early June with blooming stems covered in lance shaped, green leaves, topped by buttery yellow blooms that are open through the day and close in the evening. 

Quick to spread these can outcompete less rambunctious plants but coexist perfectly well with Monardas, Asters, Goldenrods and pretty much anyone taller than them. 

Please check out the Prairie Moon listing for more details.