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Meadow Evening Primrose

Oenothera pilosella

Last reviewed: June 2026

Meadow Evening Primrose (Oenothera pilosella)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

8"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, IA and 15 more states

Pollinators

bees, moths, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

South Central Plains

Meadow evening primrose is a low-growing native wildflower that produces bright yellow, four-petaled flowers from summer through early fall. The flowers open in the evening and attract night-flying moths, though they remain open during the day. This drought-tolerant perennial forms neat clumps and requires minimal care once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Meadow 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.

  • Has 'meadow' in common name which signals wild appearance
  • Can spread and naturalize beyond intended areas
  • May look weedy or unkempt to those unfamiliar with native plants

Wildlife value

Evening primrose flowers are specially adapted to attract night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators, though bees and beetles also visit during daylight hours. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.

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 Meadow Evening Primrose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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