Cutleaf evening primrose - Oenothera laciniata (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Cutleaf evening primrose

Also known as: Evening primrose

Cutleaf evening primrose (Oenothera laciniata) is a biennial flowering shrub that only blooms at night. The cutleaf evening primrose's blossoms close up again by noon the following day. This species is native to the eastern United States.

Scientific classification

Species

Cutleaf evening primrose (Oenothera laciniata)

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Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

15 cm to 61 cm

Plant Height

15 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Cutleaf evening primrose

Distribution of Cutleaf evening primrose

Distribution Map

Cutleaf evening primrose grows naturally from Central and Eastern USA to Guatemala and is present elsewhere in the continents. Its native ecosystem is disturbed land, fencerows, and fields. Cutleaf evening primrose is considered a common weed in several US states, including Georgia and Louisiana.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sandy fields, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Cutleaf evening primrose provides lots of ornamentation in wildflower, butterfly, and informal gardens. It can be planted in flower beds beside other green plants, where its flowers stand out and provide showy decoration. Otherwise, it makes a good ground cover plant that provides a small amount of ornamentation with its blooms.

Symbolism

Evening: inconstancy

Interesting Facts

Once used as a food and medicine by Native Americans, Oenothera laciniata is now considered a problematic weed in many parts of North America. The plant spreads easily, mostly in disturbed areas and agronomic fields, overtaking the crops.

Name Story

Cutleaf evening primrose: As part of the Oenothera genus, it is called evening primrose for its pattern of blooming. Also, the plant is featured with deeply cut or lobed leaves. Therefore, it is called the cutleaf evening primrose.

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Weed Control

Cutleaf evening primrose is a weed that grows in most of the United States, in meadows, gardens, agricultural fields, lawns, and disturbed ground. Although it is not on any state invasive species list, it has the capability to spread aggressively with its copious seed production. The weed’s texture is not suitable to be eaten by foraging animals in pastures and its presence can also lower hay quality. Removal can be difficult by hand as stems tend to break off leaving roots intact, so herbicide is another option. In lawns, encourage competition from healthy grass with proper fertilization and mowing to avoid weed growth.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of cutleaf evening primrose is during springtime, before the plant has had a chance to flower and spread its seeds. Here are some methods to control or remove cutleaf evening primrose:

Hand pulling: This method works best when the soil is moist. Grasp the plant at the base near the soil line and pull gently. Try to remove the entire root system to prevent re-growth. Wear gloves and protective clothing to protect your hands and skin.
Mulching: Mulch acts as a barrier that prevents the growth of cutleaf evening primrose by blocking sunlight. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch (about 2-3 inches) around desired plants. This will also enrich the soil as the mulch decomposes.
Solarization: This method uses the sun's heat to kill cutleaf evening primrose. First, mow or trim the area where cutleaf evening primrose is growing. Then, cover the area with clear plastic and secure it with rocks or soil. Leave the plastic in place for 4-6 weeks during the hottest part of the year. The heat under the plastic will kill cutleaf evening primrose and its seeds.
Vinegar spray: Use a spray bottle to apply white vinegar directly to cutleaf evening primrose. Be careful to avoid desired plants as vinegar can harm them. The best time to apply is on a sunny day, as the sun will amplify the vinegar's effect.

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Care Guide for Cutleaf evening primrose

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Cutleaf evening primrose originates from well-drained soils in temperate regions and thrives with moderate moisture. It is drought-resistant, prefers a balance of dryness and humidity, and benefits from weekly watering to mimic its natural habitat, enhancing its growth cycle outdoors.

Fertilize: Cutleaf evening primrose thrives in poor soil and requires minimal fertilization. For vigorous growth and flowering, mix organic fertilizer and humus before planting. During the growing season, topdressing isn't necessary, but applying a phosphorus and potassium-rich liquid fertilizer biweekly can enhance blooming.

Pruning: Cutleaf evening primrose should be cut back to the ground after the leaves dry in late fall or early spring. This encourages vigorous growth and abundant foliage in spring while reducing the likelihood of pests and diseases in the following year.

Propagation: The optimal propagation season for cutleaf evening primrose is Spring, primarily through sowing. Success indicators include robust root system and lush foliage. Ensuring adequate moisture levels can significantly improve germination rates.

Repotting: Cutleaf evening primrose requires excellent drainage in containers to thrive effectively.

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Images of Cutleaf evening primrose

Distribution of Cutleaf evening primrose

Culture

Weed Control

Care Guide for Cutleaf evening primrose

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