Overview
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Oenothera, part of the Onagraceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds. It is native to Southwestern United States.
About
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' is a bushy, deciduous herbaceous perennial belonging to the genus Oenothera, commonly known as evening primrose. It typically grows to a height of 0.5 to 1 metre with a spread of 0.1 to 0.5 metres, reaching full size within 1 to 2 years. This cultivar thrives in full sun on south- or west-facing, sheltered sites with well-drained soils, including chalk, loam, and sand, across a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline. It provides seasonal interest during the summer and autumn months.
About the genus
Oenothera is a genus of about 160 species of herbaceous flowering plants native to the Americas. The genus includes common evening primrose, sundrops and gaura. It is the type genus of the family Onagraceae.
Wikipedia contributors, "Oenothera", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Oenothera
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Oenothera
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
- Native to
- Southwestern United States
- Fragrance
- Mild, sweet scent
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea'
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Pruning
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming; cut back in late winter or early spring to promote fresh growth.
- Propagation
- Seed sown in early summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews, Leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea'?
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea'?
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' need?
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea'?
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming; cut back in late winter or early spring to promote fresh growth.
How big does Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' grow?
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' hardy in the UK?
Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Oenothera stricta 'Sulphurea'?
Seed sown in early summer.
More in the Oenothera genus
- Oenothera fruticosa 'Michelle Ploeger'Narrowleaf Evening Primrose

- Gaura lindheirmeri 'Cool Breeze'
- Oenothera lindheimeri Baby Butterfly Dark Pink ('Uriblbp'PBR) (G)
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