Oenothera macrocarpa

syn. Oenothera missouriensis

These are tough, sun-loving US natives that can be divided into two main groups: Evening Primroses (night bloomers) and Sundrops or Suncups (day bloomers).

Missouri evening primrose or Ozark sundrop is one of the day bloomers. It is just about the best perennial you can plant if you are looking for a burst of yellow at the front of the full sun border. Large (up to 4" wide!) flowers repeat from May through August. The low, sprawling foliage is attractive but unobtrusive. Flowers are followed by interesting seed pods. Incredibly easy to grow on nearly any soil.

Distinctions: Winner of an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticulture Society.

Zones: 4 to 8

Family: Onagraceae

Type: Perennial

Height: 9 to 12 in.

Spread: 12 to 18 in.

Exposure: Full sun

Soil Conditions: dry, well-drained

Bloom Time: June to September

Bloom Color: golden yellow

Native Range: Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and northeast Mexico