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Large-flowered Evening Primrose

Oenothera glazioviana

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Myrtales
Family:
Onagraceae (Willowherb)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Biennial or Perennial
Maximum Size:
125 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Fields, gardens, meadows, riverbanks, roadsides, rocky places, sand dunes, seaside, towns, wasteland, waterside, wetland, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Yellow, 4 petals
 
The flowers of Large-flowered Evening Primrose are characterized by their vibrant and conspicuous appearance. Each flower has four heart-shaped petals, which are a bright and cheerful yellow color. The blooms are relatively large, contributing to the plant's name, and they open in the late afternoon and evening, creating a captivating display during these hours. These flowers typically have a fragrant scent, adding to their allure. The lance-shaped leaves of the plant form a basal rosette, and the overall structure of the plant is aesthetically pleasing. When in full bloom, Large-flowered Evening Primrose creates a visually stunning scene, especially when set against the backdrop of the UK's natural landscapes, including coastal sand dunes, meadows, and roadside verges. The plant's adaptation to various habitats and its vibrant flowers make it a delightful addition to the British flora.
Fruit:
The fruit of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a cylindrical capsule. The capsule develops after the flowers have been pollinated and withers. As the capsule matures, it contains numerous small, brown seeds. Once the capsule is fully mature, it splits open, releasing the seeds into the surrounding environment. The seeds are relatively small and can be dispersed by the wind or carried by animals, contributing to the plant's ability to colonize different habitats. The fruiting stage of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is an essential part of its life cycle, enabling the plant to reproduce and spread in various ecosystems, including coastal areas, meadows, and roadside environments in the United Kingdom.
Leaves:
The leaves of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose are lance-shaped and typically have a pale green hue. These leaves form a basal rosette, radiating from a central point near the base of the plant. The leaf margins may exhibit some degree of toothed or serrated edges. The arrangement of the leaves allows for efficient sunlight capture, contributing to the plant's photosynthetic processes. The foliage provides an attractive green backdrop to the vibrant yellow flowers when in bloom. The leaves play a crucial role in the overall aesthetic appeal and ecological functions of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose in various habitats across the United Kingdom, including coastal sand dunes, meadows, and roadside verges.
Aroma:
The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is known to produce a sweet and delicate fragrance. The scent emanates from the vibrant yellow flowers, contributing to the overall sensory experience when in bloom. The aroma is often described as pleasant and can add an olfactory dimension to the visual beauty of the plant. This sweet fragrance, coupled with the visually striking blooms, makes the Large-flowered Evening Primrose a delightful addition to natural settings and gardens in the United Kingdom.
Other Names:
Brazilian Primrose, Glaziou's Evening Primrose, Reddish Evening-primrose, Red-sepal Evening-primrose, Tall Evening-primrose.
Frequency (UK):
Common  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Oenothera glazioviana, also known as Glaziou's evening primrose or Brazilian primrose, is a species of flowering plant in the evening primrose family. It is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Oenothera glazioviana is a perennial herb that grows to a height of about 60 cm (2 feet). It has oval-shaped leaves and large, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are a popular nectar source for bees and other insects. Oenothera glazioviana is often used in gardens as an ornamental plant, either as a standalone herb or in containers. It is generally easy to grow and does well in well-draining soil. It can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including drought, making it a good choice for dry gardens.

Blog

Large-flowered Evening Primrose: A Beautiful and Versatile Plant

Oenothera glazioviana, commonly known as the Large-flowered Evening Primrose, is a popular plant in gardens and landscapes. This beautiful and versatile plant is native to South America and is known for its showy, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the evening. The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of soils and environments.

One of the best things about the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is its ability to adapt to different soil types. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soils, from sand to clay, and it is also tolerant of salt, making it a good choice for coastal gardens. The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is also drought-tolerant, which means it can survive in areas with little rainfall.

In addition to its versatility and hardiness, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is also known for its stunning flowers. The yellow flowers are large, up to 4 inches in diameter, and they bloom in the evening, which makes them a great choice for gardens that are illuminated at night. The flowers are also very fragrant, which makes them attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and moths.

The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a great choice for gardeners who are looking for a low-maintenance plant. It is easy to care for and does not require a lot of attention or special treatment. The plant is also very fast-growing, which means it can quickly fill in a garden bed or add height to a landscape.

In addition to its ornamental qualities, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is also useful for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions, headaches, and inflammation.

The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a beautiful and versatile plant that is perfect for gardens and landscapes. With its adaptability to different soils and environments, low-maintenance requirements, and stunning yellow flowers, it is a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

The Large-flowered Evening Primrose is also a great choice for those who are interested in xeriscaping, or creating low-water landscapes. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with very little water, which makes it a great option for gardens in arid regions. It is also a good choice for gardeners who are looking to conserve water, as it does not require frequent watering.

Another benefit of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is that it is a long-blooming plant. Once the plant starts blooming, it will continue to produce flowers for several months, providing a long-lasting source of beauty and interest in the garden.

If you are looking to add the Large-flowered Evening Primrose to your garden, it is best to plant it in full sun or partial shade. The plant does well in well-drained soils and can be propagated by seed or cuttings. When planting the Large-flowered Evening Primrose, it is important to provide it with enough space to grow, as it can reach heights of up to 3 feet.

In addition to its use in gardens and landscapes, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is also a popular cut flower. Its large yellow flowers and sweet fragrance make it a great choice for arrangements and bouquets. The flowers are also long-lasting and will retain their beauty for several days when cut.

Overall, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a fantastic addition to any garden or landscape. With its versatility, hardiness, and stunning yellow flowers, it is sure to bring joy and beauty to your outdoor spaces. Whether you are looking for a plant to add interest to your garden or a cut flower for your next bouquet, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is definitely worth considering.

In addition to its ornamental and medicinal qualities, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose also provides habitat and food for wildlife. The plant is a source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and its seeds are a food source for birds and small mammals. This makes the Large-flowered Evening Primrose a valuable plant for supporting biodiversity in the garden.

Another important aspect of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is its ease of cultivation. It is a fast-growing plant that is relatively easy to care for and maintain. It does not require frequent pruning or deadheading, and it is resistant to pests and diseases. This makes it a great choice for gardeners who want to add a low-maintenance plant to their garden.

In terms of design, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose can be used in a variety of ways. It is a great choice for borders, rock gardens, and cottage gardens, and it can also be used as a specimen plant or mass-planted to create a bold statement in the garden. The plant is also a great choice for naturalistic gardens, as its yellow flowers and green foliage blend well with other native plants.

In conclusion, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is a fantastic plant that is versatile, hardy, and easy to care for. It provides a long-lasting source of beauty, interest, and habitat for wildlife, and it is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the Large-flowered Evening Primrose is definitely worth considering for your next gardening project.


25 Facts

Large-flowered Evening Primrose (Oenothera glazioviana) is a fascinating plant known for its distinctive features and enchanting blooms. Here are 25 facts about it:

  1. Scientific Name: Oenothera glazioviana.
  2. Common Names: Large-flowered Evening Primrose, Redsepal Evening Primrose.
  3. Native Habitat: Originally native to North America but has naturalized in various parts of the world.
  4. Blooming Period: Typically blooms from late spring to late summer.
  5. Flower Characteristics: Large, bright yellow flowers with four heart-shaped petals.
  6. Evening Bloomer: The flowers open in the late afternoon and evening, attracting pollinators like moths.
  7. Drought-Tolerant: Well-adapted to dry and sandy soils, making it suitable for coastal environments.
  8. Biennial Plant: Typically completes its life cycle in two years.
  9. Height: Can reach a height of 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters).
  10. Attracts Wildlife: Evening Primrose flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
  11. Seed Dispersal: Propagates primarily through seeds, which are dispersed by wind and animals.
  12. Cultural Uses: Some Native American tribes used Evening Primrose for medicinal and culinary purposes.
  13. Oil Production: Evening Primrose oil is extracted from the seeds and is believed to have various health benefits.
  14. Foliage: Lance-shaped leaves are usually pale green and form a basal rosette.
  15. Adaptability: Can thrive in disturbed habitats, meadows, and along roadsides.
  16. Invasive Species: Considered invasive in some regions due to its ability to spread rapidly.
  17. Genus Characteristics: Belongs to the Onagraceae family, which includes other species of primroses.
  18. Nocturnal Pollination: Evening Primrose flowers are adapted for pollination by moths, which are active during the night.
  19. Photoperiodic: Flowering is influenced by the length of daylight, with longer days promoting flowering.
  20. Environmental Indicator: Presence in an area may indicate soil disturbance or poor soil quality.
  21. Fragrance: Some varieties of Evening Primrose have a sweet fragrance.
  22. Container Gardening: Suitable for container gardening, adding a splash of color to patios and balconies.
  23. Medicinal Uses: Traditionally used to treat various ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory issues.
  24. Culinary Uses: Leaves are edible and can be used in salads or cooked as greens.
  25. Conservation: In some regions, efforts are made to control its spread to protect native plant species.

These facts highlight the diversity and adaptability of the Large-flowered Evening Primrose, making it a captivating subject for nature enthusiasts and gardeners alike.


Videos

Video 1: Large-flowered Evening Primrose filmed at Formby, Lancashire on the 25th September 2022.

 

Video 2: Large-flowered Evening Primrose filmed at Lytham St. Anne's, Lancashire on the 12th June 2023.

 

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Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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