Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) (Oenothera fruticosa)

Photo: Mason Brock (Masebrock), Public domain · source

Pruning guide · Perennial

Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa): when and how to prune

Oenothera fruticosa

Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) is best pruned in March.

Key facts
Pruning monthsMarch
FloweringJune–August
Good for bees, butterflies and birdsYes, for bees
Native to BelgiumNo, planted

Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa): when to prune it?

In March, before the new shoots appear. In summer, only remove spent flowers.

What else to prune in those months? March

Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa): how to prune it?

  1. Cut the old, dry stems to 5–10 cm above the ground.
  2. Remove dead or damaged parts completely.
  3. In summer, cut off spent clusters for a longer flowering.

How much to cut, and how often?

  • One pruning period a year: March.

What does it mean for wildlife?

  • Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees.
  • If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.

Nearby: related pruning guides

Plant profile: Narrowleaf evening primrose (Oenothera fruticosa) · Pruning calendar and basic rules

This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.

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