Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis), Dolly Sods Wilderness

–  Click on the image to enlarge or purchase  –

Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

The Common Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is a member of the Onagraceae or Evening Primrose family.  This is a short-lived biennial or perennial which can grow up to 6-feet tall.  The leaves, which grow to 8-inches long, are sessile, sometimes toothed, often wavy on the edges.  The plant has flower clusters at the end of a stiff spike with pale yellow tubular flowers that have four petals to 1-inch in length.  The flowers open at twilight.   This  wildflower is found in dry open places throughout the US and southern Canada.  It flowers from June to October.