White-stem Evening-primrose
Oenothera albicaulis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, IA, ID and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
White-stem evening-primrose is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces bright white or pale pink flowers from late spring through summer. The blooms open in the evening and stay open through the next morning, creating a charming display in sunny, dry areas. This drought-tolerant native requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
White-stem 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 lifespan creates gaps in plantings
- Evening-blooming habit may appear closed during day
- Low growth habit can look sparse in formal settings
Wildlife value
The evening-blooming flowers attract night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators. Bees also visit the flowers during morning hours when blooms remain open.
Common questions
- How much sun does White-stem Evening-primrose need?
- White-stem Evening-primrose grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does White-stem Evening-primrose bloom?
- White-stem Evening-primrose blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is White-stem Evening-primrose native?
- White-stem Evening-primrose (Oenothera albicaulis) is native to CA, CO, IA, ID and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does White-stem Evening-primrose attract?
- White-stem Evening-primrose draws bees and moths.
- Is White-stem Evening-primrose HOA-friendly?
- White-stem Evening-primrose takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow White-stem Evening-primrose? 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