Quick answer: Narrowleaf evening-primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) is native to 10 states. What's commonly sold under this name is often a bred variety or the wrong species — see the lookalike alert below. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Mason Brock (Masebrock), Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
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 |
|---|---|
| Water | High water |
| Soil | Well-drained soils, tolerant of brackish and lime soils, acidic pH |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jul |
| Height | Up to 3 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Attracts birds and hummingbirds, special value to native bees |
none noted (spreads rapidly under favorable conditions but does not usually become aggressive)
Lookalike alert
Cultivar ('Youngii').
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Narrowleaf evening-primrose
Where is Narrowleaf evening-primrose native?
Narrowleaf evening-primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) is native to 10 states across the Northeast and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Narrowleaf evening-primrose bloom?
Narrowleaf evening-primrose blooms Apr-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Narrowleaf evening-primrose need?
Light: Sun. Water: High water. Soil: Well-drained soils, tolerant of brackish and lime soils, acidic pH. Mature height: Up to 3 ft tall.
Is Narrowleaf evening-primrose good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Attracts birds and hummingbirds, special value to native bees.
Where can I buy real Narrowleaf evening-primrose seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Be aware that some sellers offer bred varieties under this name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Narrowleaf evening-primrose.
- Threadleaf coreopsis Coreopsis verticillata
- New York ironweed Vernonia noveboracensis
- Plains coreopsis Coreopsis tinctoria
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
- Seaside goldenrod Solidago sempervirens
- Dwarf crested iris Iris cristata
Also listed under
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