Oenothera lindheimeri (Engelm. & A.Gray) W.L.Wagner & Hoch

Growth Form

Oenothera lindheimeri is a perennial herbaceous plant that reaches 50 to 150 centimeters (20–60 inches) in height. It grows densely clustered branched stems from an underground rhizome.

Leaf Characteristics

Its leaves are finely hairy, lanceolate in shape, 1 to 9 cm (1⁄2–3+1⁄2 in) long and 1 to 13 mm (1⁄16–1⁄2 in) wide, with coarsely toothed margins.

Inflorescence and Flower Structure

Flowers are borne on an inflorescence 10 to 80 centimeters (5–30 in) long; the blooms are pink or white, 2 to 3 cm (3⁄4–1+1⁄4 in) in diameter, with four petals 10 to 15 mm (3⁄8–5⁄8 in) long and long, hairlike stamens.

Flowering Period

Flowering occurs from early spring through to the first frost.

Ornamental Use

Oenothera lindheimeri is commonly grown as an ornamental plant. It is used in garden beds or containers to add accent color and delicate texture.

Cultivation Requirements

It grows best in full sun and can tolerate long periods of drought.

Cultivar Flower Colors

Multiple cultivars have been selected for different flower colors: 'Whirling Butterflies' has nearly pure white blooms, while 'Cherry Brandy' and 'Siskiyou Pink' have darker pink flowers.

Cultivar Petal Color Change

For some cultivars, petals are white at dawn, then turn pink before falling off at dusk.

Hardiness Rating

While it is a perennial rated hardy for USDA Zones 5(6)-9, it does not always overwinter reliably, and is often grown as an annual outside its native range.

Winter Care

In colder climates, a thick winter mulch is required for survival.

Horticultural Award

This species has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.