Description

EVENING PRIMROSE (Oenothera biennis) is a North American heirloom also known as Evening Star for two reasons. It blooms as the sun descends and it has a bright nectar guide that is invisible during the day but under ultraviolet light is apparent and can be seen by its many night-time pollinators. The beautiful quatrefoil yellow flowers bloom from late spring through late summer and never fails to elicit "oohs" and "aahs" from visitors. The leaves and flowers are edible and make a beautiful accent to salads. Grows 28"- 48" (if given support) high. Self-seeding biennial, but once established, you will have this wonderful herb every year. Hardy zones 4-8. 50 Seeds.

MEDICINAL: The mature seeds contain 7-10% gamma-lineolic acid - a rare essential fatty acid, well-documented to reduce inflammation in the body and also to bust belly fat. However, caution because some experience side effects such as itching and extreme flatulence. Oil made from the seed is used to treat premenstrual syndrome and is also an effective skin care element. Poultices made of the oil were used to speed wound healing and ease bruises.

GROWING TIPS: A light-dependent germinator so lay on top of flats composed of moist peat covered with potting mix and cover with plastic wrap until sprouting begins. Then remove wrap, keep moist and allow to grow until you can pinch out the seedlings into individual pots and let grow until they have nice root balls. Then harden off and set into your spring garden in a sunny location. Once established, will likely self-seed.