Small Sundrops
Oenothera perennis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Small Sundrops (Oenothera perennis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Small sundrops is a compact native perennial that produces bright yellow, four-petaled flowers from late spring through summer. This low-growing wildflower forms neat clumps and works well in sunny borders or rock gardens. The plant goes dormant in winter, dying back to ground level.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small Sundrops is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare ground
- Flowers close by afternoon which may look odd to some
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract native bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the growing season. Small sundrops provides nectar during peak pollinator activity months.
Common questions
- How much sun does Small Sundrops need?
- Small Sundrops grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Small Sundrops bloom?
- Small Sundrops blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Small Sundrops native?
- Small Sundrops (Oenothera perennis) is native to CT, DE, IA, IL and 21 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Small Sundrops attract?
- Small Sundrops draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Small Sundrops HOA-friendly?
- Small Sundrops is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Small Sundrops? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz