German-rampion
Oenothera biennis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Oenothera biennis is a native evening primrose that blooms yellow flowers from June through September across most US states. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, moths, and butterflies in full sun gardens.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag German-rampion as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 39 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Evening primrose is a tall biennial wildflower that produces bright yellow flowers that open in the evening and remain open through the following morning. The plant forms a low rosette in its first year, then sends up tall flowering stalks in the second year before dying and reseeding.
Growing German-rampion
Grow German-rampion in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
German-rampion 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.
- Very tall and can appear weedy or unkempt
- Self-seeds aggressively and may spread beyond intended areas
- Dies back completely after flowering, leaving gaps in plantings
Wildlife value
Host plant for ghost moth, bald eagle moth.
The evening-blooming flowers are especially valuable for night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators. Bees and butterflies also visit the flowers during morning hours when they remain open.
Common questions
- When does Oenothera biennis bloom?
- Evening primrose blooms from June through September, producing bright yellow flowers that typically open in the evening.
- What pollinators visit Oenothera biennis?
- This native plant attracts bees, moths, and butterflies. Evening moths are particularly drawn to the night-blooming flowers.
- Where is Oenothera biennis native?
- Evening primrose is native to most US states from coast to coast, including the Southeast, Midwest, Great Plains, and parts of the West Coast.
- What growing conditions does Oenothera biennis prefer?
- This hardy wildflower thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it excellent for drought-tolerant landscaping and natural gardens.
- Is German-rampion toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag German-rampion as toxic to livestock.
- Is German-rampion HOA-friendly?
- German-rampion 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 German-rampion? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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