Evening primrose (Oenothera 'Innoeno131' LEMON DROP)

Overview

Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP is a highly rewarding, compact selection within the diverse Evening primrose genus. This herbaceous perennial brings bright, season-long color, making it a staple for low-effort, high-impact gardens. Its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers offer excellent ground-covering texture from early summer through early fall.

Valued for its durability, the Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP performs exceptionally well in average, well-drained soils, thriving even when conditions become dry. Gardeners appreciate this variety because it combines the classic charm of Evening primrose with a manageable, low-growing habit, ideal for softening hard edges or filling small spaces.

This cultivar produces small, four-petaled, lemon-yellow flowers consistently throughout the summer. It requires minimal care once established, making it a perfect fit for xeriscaping or for gardeners seeking beautiful, reliable bloomers that are largely trouble-free.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Onagraceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 5-9
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 0.5-1 ft
  • Spread: 0.5-1 ft
• Bloom Time: June to September
• Bloom Description: Yellow
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Water Needs: Dry to medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant this selection during the spring or fall after the danger of hard frost has passed. Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP establishes best in full sun, although it can tolerate a limited amount of part afternoon shade, especially in the hottest climates. The soil must be well-drained; this plant dislikes sitting in perpetually wet or heavy, compacted clay soils.

Care for this Evening primrose variety is straightforward. Watering needs are described as dry to medium; water regularly until the plant is fully established, after which it exhibits good drought tolerance. Fertilization is generally unnecessary, as rich soils can promote excessive green growth at the expense of blooms.

Maintenance for Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP is considered low. Deadheading spent blooms is not strictly required, though light trimming in mid-summer can encourage a fresh flush of flowers. Prepare for spring by cleaning out any accumulated winter debris around the low-growing clumps.

Landscape Uses

The primary landscape application for this sturdy ground cover is utilizing its spreading habit to cover bare patches or weave between hardscaping elements. Its short stature (under one foot) makes it an excellent spiller or mid-layer plant in mixed perennial beds and borders where taller plants demand the background.

Its bright yellow blooms and low profile make Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP an outstanding choice for edging walkways or softening the sharp lines where lawn meets foundation. Furthermore, its ease of care and drought resistance make it perfect for container gardening, especially when paired with cascading annuals or upright structural plants.

Standout Features

Flower Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Oenothera is a genus of about 125 species of annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials mostly from North America with a few species from South America. They are grown from their lovely flowers in shades of yellow, white or pink depending upon the species. Genus name is unclear but may have come from the Greek words oinos and theras meaning wine-seeker in probable reference to an ancient use of the roots of genus plants in scenting wine. LEMON DROP is a compact, erect, day-flowering member of the evening primrose family. It typically grows 8-12” tall and produces four-petaled lemon yellow flowers over a long summer bloom.

Tolerances

• Drought

Potential Problems

Fortunately, Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP is not known to have serious insect or disease problems, contributing significantly to its low maintenance score. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering at the base of the plant will help prevent common fungal issues that can affect many perennials. Vigorous seedlings may appear nearby due to self-seeding, which can be easily managed with routine weeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Evening primrose suitable for?

This specific cultivar, Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP, is hardy across USDA Zones 5 through 9, making it reliably perennial across a wide climatic band.

How large does Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP grow?

This compact Evening primrose typically matures to a height between 0.5 and 1 foot tall, with a similar spread, forming a dense, low mound.

When does Evening primrose bloom?

Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP provides continuous color primarily from June through September, displaying its signature bright yellow flowers.

Conclusion

The Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP offers gardeners exceptional value through its reliable performance, drought tolerance, and long season of bright yellow blooms. As a wonderfully low-maintenance herbaceous perennial, this Evening primrose variety excels as dependable ground cover or border accent. Ensure your planting site receives full sun and has sharp drainage to best enjoy the carefree beauty of Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP this summer.

Companion Planting Wisdom

When designing a border around your Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP, selecting companions that share its preference for full sun and drier conditions is key. Pair it with silvery-leaved, drought-tolerant plants like Lamb’s Ears (Stachys byzantina) or various ornamental sages (Salvia species) to create textural contrast against the bright yellow flowers. Plants with upright habits, such as Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) or Catmint (Nepeta), will provide vertical interest above the low, spreading habit of this Evening primrose.

Seasonal Care Calendar

For optimal health, focus your seasonal attention on location preparation and end-of-season cleanup. In early spring, perform a light cleanup, removing any spent foliage from the previous year, though typically minimal pruning is needed. Throughout the summer, monitor moisture levels during severe dry spells, giving the plants a deep soak rather than frequent shallow sprinkles to encourage deep root growth. As autumn approaches, allow the foliage to die back naturally; this helps insulate overwintering crowns, ensuring vigorous regrowth for your Oenothera ‘Innoeno131’ LEMON DROP next year.