Whitest Evening Primrose
Oenothera albicaulis

Family: Onagraceae

What it is like

Oenothera albicaulis is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies), bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Rather dry grassy and disturbed places, 800 - 2200 metres.

Western N. America - Arizona to S. Dakota and Montana.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Fruit. Another report says that the plant has an edible seedpod. The reports for edible fruit probably mean the seedpod. Seed - cooked. They can be used in soups or can be ground into a powder and then used as a gravy. Root - cooked. Too small to be a staple food, but useful in an emergency, the roots taste best in late autumn, winter and early spring. Leaves and young shoots - cooked.

Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Seedpod: things such as Okra, French and Runner beans.

Medicine

Rating: 1

A poultice of the plant has been used to treat swellings. A decoction of the root has been drunk and used as a lotion on muscle strains.

Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.

Other

Rating:

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Prefers a dryish well-drained sandy loam and full sun. Heavy clay soils may induce winter rots. Succeeds in poor soils. The flowers open in the evening, they are richly scented and are very attractive to moths.

Propagating it: Seed - sow in situ from late spring to early summer or in the autumn.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual/Biennial

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Anogra albicaulis.