Oenothera bien. Common evening primrose

*Oenothera biennis*, commonly known as Common Evening Primrose, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant known for its yellow flowers that open in the evening. Here's a guide on how to grow Common Evening Primrose:

**1. Planting Time:**
- Common Evening Primrose is typically grown from seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden in the fall or early spring. The plant is a biennial, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years.

**2. Location:**
- Choose a location with full sun to partial shade. Common Evening Primrose prefers well-lit areas.

**3. Soil Preparation:**
- Prepare well-draining, sandy to loamy soil. Common Evening Primrose is adaptable to various soil types but thrives in well-draining conditions. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and fertility.

**4. Planting Seeds:**
- Sow the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil. Water the area well after planting.

**5. Watering:**
- Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period. Once established, Common Evening Primrose is somewhat drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells to encourage healthy growth.

**6. Mulching:**
- Apply a thin layer of mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid heavy mulching directly over the plants to allow them to receive adequate sunlight.

**7. Growth Habit:**
- Common Evening Primrose can grow to a height of 2 to 4 feet, creating a clumping and upright appearance.

**8. Pruning:**
- While Common Evening Primrose doesn't require extensive pruning, you may choose to deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. However, leaving some seed heads can provide interest in the garden.

**9. Self-Seeding:**
- Common Evening Primrose is known to self-seed readily. If you want to control its spread, deadhead the flowers before they produce seeds.

**10. Deer Resistance:**
- Common Evening Primrose is often resistant to deer browsing, making it a good choice in areas where deer are a concern.

**11. Winter Care:**
- Common Evening Primrose is generally hardy and can withstand winter temperatures. In colder climates, it may die back in winter and regrow in the spring.

**12. Wildlife Attraction:**
- The flowers of Common Evening Primrose attract pollinators, including moths and bees. The plant is also a host plant for certain butterfly larvae.

Common Evening Primrose is a lovely addition to naturalized or cottage gardens, providing unique flowers and attracting pollinators. Keep in mind its potential for self-seeding, and adjust your care routine based on your specific growing conditions.