Description
Form: A colony-forming herb.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen but cold and drought deciduous.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 1-2' (30-60cm) high.
Flowers: White to pink, 2" (5cm) wide, fragrant.
Bloom: Spring into fall, depending on rainfall. In southern regions, they open in the morning for one day, then crumple up the next morning so others can take their place. In the northern part of their range, they open in the evening and bloom for one night.
Fruit: A winged, cylindrical seed capsule, about 1/2" (12mm) long, with tiny seeds.
Leaves: Green, variably lance-shaped to elliptical, with edges possibly wavy, partly toothed, or smooth, edible. Red pigmentation appears in cold weather.
Stems: Erect to reclining.
Roots: This plant spreads by rhizomes, which may be up to 1' (30cm) deep. It proliferates aggressively and should be grown in a confined space.
Wildlife: The flowers attract bees, moths, and other pollinating insects. The seeds attract birds.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: United States and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 5-9.
Heat tolerant: It goes dormant in very hot or dry weather, then revives with summer rains.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to part shade. Part shade means fewer blooms.
Soil: Well draining, pH 5.6-8.5 (acidic to alkaline).
Water once established: Once or twice a month in the hottest months of the year.
Prune: In the fall, shear or mow these plants to the ground.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed, transplanting offshoots. This plant freely reseeds on its own as well as producing new offshoots from its underground rhizomes.
Uses: Ornamental, ground cover. The leaves, when harvested before flowering starts, can be used raw in salads or cooked like spinach.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae). Other common names are Mexican / Pink / White / Showy Evening Primrose.

---

Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.