Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Onagraceae

Genus:

Oenothera

Species:

Oenothera nuttallii

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

3-4 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

White

Native Range

United States: Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Canada: Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Bee Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Common in prairies and open woodlands

Germination Information