Quick answer: Common evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is native to 30 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Christian Ferrer, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade, Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Dry |
| Soil | Rocky or sandy soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Jul-Sep |
| Height | Up to 6 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts moths, birds eat seeds, special value to native bees |
none noted (self-seeds in disturbed soil, does not persist in established landscapes — growing note, not invasive designation)
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Common evening primrose
Where is Common evening primrose native?
Common evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) is native to 30 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Common evening primrose bloom?
Common evening primrose blooms Jul-Sep. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Common evening primrose need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Water: Medium water, Dry. Soil: Rocky or sandy soils. Mature height: Up to 6 ft tall.
Is Common evening primrose good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts moths, birds eat seeds, special value to native bees.
Is Common evening primrose deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Common evening primrose is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Common evening primrose seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Oenothera biennis on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Common evening primrose.
- Coralberry Symphoricarpos orbiculatus
- Fragrant sumac Rhus aromatica
- Climbing prairie rose Rosa setigera
- Smooth Solomon's seal Polygonatum biflorum
- Common ninebark Physocarpus opulifolius
- Eastern red columbine Aquilegia canadensis
Also listed under
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