Oenothera aka Evening Primroses

Oenothera, also known as evening primrose, is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants native to the Americas. With approximately 145 species, it is the type genus of the Onagraceae family. Commonly referred to as suncups or sundrops, Oenothera is distinct from true primroses. One notable variety is the 'Crown Imperial', a clump-forming perennial reaching a height of 40-50cm. It features broad basal leaves, glossy green stem leaves, and clusters of vibrant yellow, bowl-shaped flowers that resemble a small crown imperial fritillary. Despite its striking appearance, the flowers are sterile and do not produce seeds. Another noteworthy Oenothera is the Lemon Drop variety, highly recommended for its long blooming period, low maintenance requirements, and drought tolerance. This easy-to-grow plant showcases dark green foliage and a trailing habit, making it suitable for combination planters or hanging baskets. However, it should be noted that Lemon Drop Oenothera is considered invasive in Sacramento County, California.