Family: Onagraceae
Author: Kunth
Bibliography: F.W.H.von Humboldt, A.J.A.Bonpland & C.S.Kunth, Nov. Gen. Sp. 6: 90 (1823)
Year: 1823
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Oenothera
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & C. U.S.A. to C. America
Description
Hooker’s evening primrose, scientifically known as Oenothera elata, is a captivating species residing within the Onagraceae, or evening primrose family. This elegant plant was first described in 1823 by the renowned botanist Kunth, with the meticulous documentation found in “Nov. Gen. Sp. 6: 90,” an influential botanical reference edited by eminent scientists F.W.H. von Humboldt, A.J.A. Bonpland, and Kunth.
Originating from a diverse geographical range that extends from the western and central United States down to Central America, Hooker’s evening primrose thrives in varied climates and altitudes. This adaptability to different habitats highlights its resilience and broad ecological amplitude.
Botanically, Oenothera elata is distinguished by its tall stature and striking yellow flowers, which can capture the evening light in a mesmerizing display, hence the name “evening primrose.” The flowers typically open in the late afternoon or evening, attracting nocturnal pollinators such as moths, which play a crucial role in their pollination. These blooms are not only visually enchanting but also are known for their slight, sweet fragrance that intensifies as night falls.
The plant itself is characterized by a biennial life cycle, meaning it usually completes its biological life in two years. During the first year, it focuses on establishing a strong root system and lush rosette of leaves close to the ground. In its second year, it produces a tall flowering stem which can reach impressive heights, often ranging between three to six feet.
Hooker’s evening primrose is more than just a beautiful addition to natural landscapes; it holds ecological significance. It provides essential nectar for various species of insects and serves as a host plant for the larvae of some butterfly species, thereby contributing to the local biodiversity.
For gardeners and plant enthusiasts, Oenothera elata is often cultivated for both its aesthetic appeal and its ease of growth. It is not particularly demanding in terms of soil quality and can thrive in a variety of conditions, although it performs best in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. Its hardiness and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for naturalistic garden settings and pollinator-friendly gardens.
In summary, Hooker’s evening primrose is a remarkable plant with a rich botanical history and significant ecological role. Its striking blooms, ecological contributions, and adaptability make it a valuable species within its native range and beyond, continuing to be a source of fascination and admiration for botanists and nature lovers alike.
Common Names
Deu: hohe nachtkerze
Eng: hooker’s evening primrose, hooker’s evening-primrose, hooker’s eveningprimrose, western eveningprimrose
En: Hooker’s evening primrose, Hooker’s Evening-Primrose, Hooker evening-primrose, Hooker’s eveningprimrose, Western eveningprimrose
De: Hohe Nachtkerze
Synonyms
- Onagra elata ((Kunth) Bartl.)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Northwest European R (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken May 6, 2019 by gutierrez mauricio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 7, 2021 by Sébastien zwingelstein (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 25, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Flo_Marley (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2019 by mohammad Ansarian (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 12, 2019 by mohammad Ansarian (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2022 by barbara reisman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2019 by Chac Gabriel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2022 by kat wells (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2022 by Jodi Knight (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Nov 19, 2012 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 12, 2019 by mohammad Ansarian (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 12, 2013 by EOL − Amber Hasselbring (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 24, 2013 by EOL − Liam O’Brien (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 10, 2013 by EOL − Chris Brown (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 18, 2013 by EOL − Eric Jacob (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Flo_Marley (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 8, 2019 by Thierry Bickard (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 2, 2010 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 10, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3188829)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:613687-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Oenothera elata Kunth)
Specifications
Growth form>: Bunch
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
Growth rate>: Moderate
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 5.5