Missouri Primrose 'Sundrops' - Drought Tolerant Prairie Plant
Missouri Primrose ‘Sundrops’ (Oenothera macrocarpa) is a low-growing perennial native to the central United States, known for its large, lemon-yellow blooms that open in the evening and glow against silvery-green foliage. Each flower can reach up to four inches across, creating a striking display from late spring into early summer. As one of the most durable Missouri primrose varieties, ‘Sundrops’ thrives in dry, rocky, or sandy soils where many plants struggle. Its ability to withstand drought, poor soil, and heat makes it a dependable choice for prairie gardens and xeric landscapes.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for rock gardens, slopes, or dry borders where drainage is sharp
Ideal for native prairie gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes
Works well along walkways, retaining walls, or raised beds for cascading color
Pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses and other drought-tolerant perennials
Useful in erosion control plantings due to its spreading habit
Attractive to bees, butterflies, and night-flying pollinators
Planting Tips - Missouri Primrose
Plant in full sun to ensure the most abundant flowering and compact growth
Choose sandy or gravelly soil with excellent drainage to prevent root rot
Space plants about 12–18 inches apart to allow spreading without crowding
Water deeply until established, then only during extended drought periods
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote excess leaf growth at the expense of flowers
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and maintain a tidy mound
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Oenothera Macrocarpa |
| Variety Name: | Sundrops |
| Height: | 16″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 4-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Sun with afternoon shade |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Closes at night and reblooms every day |
| Bloom Duration: | 2 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Dry to medium, well-draining soils. Tolerates poor soils |
| Water Requirements: | Average |
Troubleshooting - Missouri Primrose
Few or no blooms – often from too much shade or overly rich soil; move to a sunnier, leaner site
Root rot – caused by poor drainage or excess watering; amend soil with sand or gravel to improve aeration
Leggy growth – typically from insufficient sunlight; trim lightly and relocate if needed
Wilting in high heat – normal midday response; plants recover by evening as temperatures drop
Spreading beyond intended area – remove outer runners or divide clumps in early spring to contain growth
FAQ - Missouri Primrose
Q: Is Missouri primrose toxic to pets or people?
A: No, Missouri Evening Primrose is considered non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and people
Q: Does Missouri Evening Primrose bloom during the day or at night?
A: The large yellow flowers open in late afternoon or evening and typically remain open through the following morning
Q: Will ‘Sundrops’ spread in the garden?
A: Yes, it can spread modestly by underground stems, forming loose colonies over time
Q: Can Missouri primrose tolerate poor soil?
A: Absolutely; it actually prefers poor, well-drained soil and struggles in rich or wet conditions