Hooker's Evening Primrose
Oenothera elata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hooker's evening primrose is a tall native wildflower that produces bright yellow cup-shaped blooms from June through September. This drought-tolerant perennial can reach up to 5 feet tall and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hooker's 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.
- Very tall growth (up to 5 feet) appears too wild for most front yards
- Evening primrose can spread aggressively and look weedy
- May be perceived as unmaintained wildflower rather than intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
The fragrant evening blooms attract night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators, while bees visit during daytime hours when flowers remain open.
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.
Does Hooker's Evening Primrose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.