Sand Primrose is a
non-native
biennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in sand dunes and coastal areas, to a mature height of up to 120cm.
Sand Primrose originates from Chile and was introduced to the UK in the late eighteenth century. Sand Primrose is an erect unbranched plant, with lightly-toothed narrow leaves, bearing scented flowers in a spike. Flowering is from the top downwards, with one or two flowers opening each evening, giving access to nocturnal pollinators. Although initially yellow-petalled, the flowers turn orange as they die back.
Botanic classification and naming: Sand Primrose is a member of the Evening Primrose (Onagraceae) family. The genus name
'Oenothera' identifies the plant as a Evening Primrose and its species name 'stricta' means 'upright plant'.
Benefits: Sand Primrose flowers open in the evening and produce nectar for late foraging bees and nocturnal moths.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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