Missouri Primrose
Oenothera macrocarpa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Missouri Primrose is a native wildflower of the Great Plains and Midwest that produces bright yellow blooms from March through August. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and attracts bees, moths, and hummingbirds.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, IL, KS, MO and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Missouri Primrose is a low-growing wildflower that produces large, bright yellow blooms from spring through summer. This drought-tolerant perennial forms a spreading mat and works well as a groundcover or in rock gardens. The plant goes dormant in winter, disappearing completely until spring growth returns.
Growing Missouri Primrose
Grow Missouri Primrose in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Missouri Primrose is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The large yellow flowers attract bees, moths, and occasionally hummingbirds throughout the long blooming season. This native plant provides nectar from spring through late summer.
Common questions
- When does Missouri Primrose bloom?
- Missouri Primrose blooms from March through August, producing large yellow flowers that open in the evening.
- What pollinators visit Missouri Primrose?
- Missouri Primrose attracts bees, moths, and hummingbirds. The large evening-opening flowers are particularly attractive to sphinx moths.
- Where is Missouri Primrose native?
- Missouri Primrose is native to Arkansas, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas in the south-central United States.
- What growing conditions does Missouri Primrose prefer?
- Missouri Primrose thrives in full sun with low to moderate water requirements, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant gardens and prairie restorations.
- Is Missouri Primrose HOA-friendly?
- Missouri Primrose is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Missouri Primrose fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.