Hooker's evening primrose
| Botanical Name | Oenothera elata |
| Common Name | Hooker's evening primrose |
| Family | Onagraceae - Evening primrose |
| Description | Biennial/Perennial. This tall, erect, native plant usually has un-branched stems with large yellow flowers. The leaves are about 6" long and grow progressively smaller up the stem. |
| Mature Size | 3' tall |
| Bloom | June-September. This flower is 1"-2" wide, has 4 broad, yellow petals, 4 reddish sepals and 8 stamens. The stigma is divided into 4 parts. The petals turn rather orange with age |
| Interesting Facts | It is noted for attracting wildlife such as moths, butterflies and bees. It opens in the evening. |
| Traditional and Medicinal Uses | The leaves, root and seedpod are edible. They are usually cooked before use. A hot poultice made with this plant, white clay and corn pollen, was applied to sores and swollen glands resulting from mumps. It was also used for colds, perhaps as a throat or chest plaster. |
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Photo for SFBG by Janice Tucker
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Photo for SFBG by Janice Tucker
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