Great evening primrose also known as evening primrose, is a hardy biennial that forms a basal rosette of leaves in its first year and develops tall, upright flowering stems in its second year. From July to September, it produces large, bright yellow flowers that open only in the evening. At dusk, the flowers release a pleasant, fresh lemon-like fragrance that attracts moths, hawk moths and other nocturnal pollinators. During the day, the flowers are also visited by bees and bumblebees. After flowering, long seed capsules containing numerous seeds develop, allowing the plant to self-seed readily under favourable conditions and return year after year. Great evening primrose grows best in a sunny, warm and sheltered location in well-drained, preferably dry to moderately fertile soil. Once established, it is highly tolerant of drought and low temperatures.
Almost the entire plant is edible, making it a surprisingly versatile culinary plant. The young leaves have a mild, slightly peppery flavour and are delicious eaten raw in salads or lightly wilted as a leafy vegetable. Older leaves are firmer and are better suited to soups, stir-fries and stews. The young roots, harvested during the first year of growth, can be boiled, steamed, roasted or added to casseroles and stews. They have a mildly sweet flavour reminiscent of salsify or parsnip. In some countries, the plant is therefore also known as ham root or king's cure-all. The flower buds can be briefly steamed or boiled and make a tasty addition to vegetable dishes. The bright yellow flowers are also edible and provide an attractive garnish for salads, desserts, cakes and refreshing summer drinks. The ripe seeds are edible as well; they are rich in oil and can be roasted or added to bread, muesli and salad mixes. Its mild, slightly peppery and subtly sweet flavour pairs beautifully with potatoes, carrots, beetroot, pumpkin, courgette, spinach and legumes. It also combines well with fish, poultry, goat's cheese and other mild cheeses. Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, thyme, lemon balm and dill perfectly complement its delicate flavour.
Besides its culinary value, great evening primrose is also well known for its health-promoting properties. The seeds are rich in oil containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a valuable omega-6 fatty acid. Evening primrose oil is therefore widely used in herbal medicine, homeopathy and the cosmetic industry. The plant also contains antioxidants, vitamins and various minerals.
Growing to a height of 80 - 150 cm with a width of 30 - 50 cm great evening primrose is an eye-catching addition to borders, natural gardens and wildflower meadows. Thanks to its tall flower spikes, spectacular evening blooms, attraction to pollinators and versatile culinary uses, this beautiful biennial is both an attractive ornamental and an exceptional edible garden plant. Hardy biennial. Height: 80 - 150 cm. Widht: 30 - 50 cm.
Indoor sowing: Mid-February - March
Outdoor sowing: May - July
Germination: 14 - 28 days
Germination temp.: 15 - 20 °C
Sowing depth: shallow
Planting distance: 50 cm
Distance between the rows: 35cm
Planting position: Full sun, warm and sheltered
Days till flowering: 320 days
Flowering period: July - September
For flowering in the first year, sow the seeds indoors or in a cold frame from mid-February through March. Fill seed trays or pots with a light, slightly acidic and well-drained seed compost, preferably mixed with a little sand. Sow the seeds on the surface and cover them with no more than 2 mm of fine soil or vermiculite. The seeds need light to germinate successfully. Keep the soil consistently slightly moist during germination, but avoid waterlogging. A temperature of around 18 °C provides the best germination results. To maintain humidity, the trays can be covered temporarily with a clear propagator lid or plastic film. Seeds usually germinate within 14 to 28 days. As soon as the first seedlings appear, remove the cover immediately to prevent fungal diseases. Place the young plants in a bright, cool location to encourage compact, sturdy growth. Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves, they can be transplanted individually into small pots.
From May onwards, when the risk of frost has passed, gradually harden off the young plants by placing them outdoors during the day. Then transplant them into a warm, sheltered position in full sun with well-drained soil. Space the plants about 50 cm apart, with 35 cm between rows. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots establish.
Seeds can also be sown directly outdoors from May to July. Choose a sunny location with well-drained, preferably slightly acidic and somewhat sandy soil. Good drainage is essential, as overly wet soil may reduce germination and plant growth. Moisten the soil before sowing. Sow the seeds on the surface and cover them only very lightly with soil or gently rake them in. This helps prevent the tiny seeds from washing away during watering or heavy rain. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to a spacing of approximately 50 cm. Plants sown directly outdoors usually form only a leaf rosette during the first year and normally flower in their second year. Once established, evening primrose requires very little maintenance and is highly drought tolerant. Water only during prolonged dry periods. The plant self-seeds readily. If you wish to prevent self-seeding, remove the faded flowers or seed pods before the seeds ripen.
