Mexican evening primrose (Oenothera berlandieri, also known as O. speciosa) is a native perennial flower in Arizona, Mexico, and much of North America, particularly more arid areas. While some may be concerned about it being invasive, in our climate itβs easy to control by limiting its water supply.
The plant is a beautiful, fragrant, flowering ground cover that thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. It likes sandy slopes with sun, but also tolerates part-shade, although it will flower less in these locations. Itβs quite hardy and drought-tolerant, although it will require some supplemental water during our hot summers to keep looking its best. Sunnier locations will require more water.
The plant spreads by seeds and stolons, which contribute to its invasiveness in other climates. If you have any concerns about that, just plant it in a terrace or large container. As mentioned, lack of water will also limit its spread. I have had a plant in my yard for years but have not had any issues with invasiveness.
The flowers are light pink and showy, about 1.5 inches round. The leaves are a lush green. Pollinators love these flowers, and itβs nice to place them near a trafficked area so you can enjoy the delicate fragrance.
Our native primroses are pretty hardy, usually into the teens Farenheit. Flowers are usually open through the night, as they are pollinated by moths, but they will also flower during the day.
Other Oenothera species are white (O. caespitosa) and yellow (O. stubbei), so you can plant a combination of colors if you wish.
