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Sessile Evening-primrose

Oenothera triloba

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sessile Evening-primrose (Oenothera triloba)
Photo: Mason Brock (Masebrock) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–16" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, CO, KS and 6 more states

Pollinators

bees, moths, beetles

Sessile evening-primrose is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces bright yellow flowers from spring through mid-summer. This compact native plant forms small rosettes and opens its blooms in the evening, making it an interesting addition to sunny, dry areas of the garden.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sessile 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.

  • Annual habit means gaps and bare spots as plants die back
  • Evening-blooming nature may look closed/wilted during day
  • Wild appearance doesn't match typical landscaping expectations

Wildlife value

The evening-blooming flowers attract night-flying moths and are also visited by bees and beetles during daytime hours. This plant provides nectar for pollinators during its extended blooming season from April through July.

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