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Alpine RockeryHerbaceous Perennial

Oenothera macrocarpa
  • RHS AGM
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Ozark sundrops

O. macrocarpa is an herbaceous perennial to 15cm in height, with trailing leafy stems to 30cm in length. Leaves narrowly oblong, with conspicuous silvery midribs; flowers solitary, 10-12cm in width, bright yellow, appearing from late spring to early autumn

Other common names
Missouri primrose
Synonyms
Oenothera missouriensis
Megapterium missouriense
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Yellow Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Onagraceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Trailing
Genus

Oenothera can be annuals, biennials or perennials, upright or spreading in habit, with simple or lobed leaves and bowl-shaped, white, yellow or pink flowers over a long period in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
USA, Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; ideal for stony soil. Protect from excessive winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Rock garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Garden edging
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Damage by slugs may be a problem

Diseases

Prone to leaf spots, mildews and root rot

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