Sessile Evening-primrose
Oenothera triloba
Last reviewed: June 2026

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
Browse plants for this ecoregion
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.