How much sun does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose need?

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose bloom?

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Cut-leaf Evening-primrose native?

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose (Oenothera laciniata) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose attract?

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose draws bees and moths.

Is Cut-leaf Evening-primrose HOA-friendly?

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Oenothera laciniata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states

Pollinators

bees, moths

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Chihuahuan Deserts Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Edwards Plateau Southern Texas Plains Texas Blackland Prairies East Central Texas Plains Western Gulf Coastal Plain South Central Plains

Cut-leaf evening-primrose is a low-growing annual wildflower with deeply lobed leaves and bright yellow flowers that open in the evening. It blooms from June through September and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care. This native plant self-seeds readily and forms spreading patches in naturalized areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cut-leaf Evening-primrose takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Looks weedy and informal throughout growing season
Self-seeds aggressively and can appear unkempt
Annual nature means patches may be patchy or bare at times

Wildlife value

The evening-blooming flowers attract night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators. Bees also visit the flowers during daytime hours when they remain open.

Common questions

How much sun does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose need?: Cut-leaf Evening-primrose grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose bloom?: Cut-leaf Evening-primrose blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Cut-leaf Evening-primrose native?: Cut-leaf Evening-primrose (Oenothera laciniata) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Cut-leaf Evening-primrose attract?: Cut-leaf Evening-primrose draws bees and moths.
Is Cut-leaf Evening-primrose HOA-friendly?: Cut-leaf Evening-primrose takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Cut-leaf Evening-primrose? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Add this plant to your garden

iPhone app Android app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz