Edge/ Narrow-leaved Sundrops

COMMON NAME: Narrow-Leaved Sundrops

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Southern Sundrops

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Oenothera fruticosa

FAMILY: Onagraceae

COMMUNITY: Edge

STATUS: Native

LIFESPAN: Perennial

HEIGHT: 12 to 40 inches

FLOWERING TIME: Early June to August

FRUITING TIME: Early July to late September

DISTRIBUTION: Massachusetts to Florida ~ Statewide in New Jersey

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Stems erect ascending or diffusely clustered ~ Leaves narrowly elliptic to oval, 2 ½ inches long, hairy ~ Flowers diurnal (open during the day), several in a compact inflorescence ~ Fruit an elongated capsule ~ Fibrous root

GENERAL INFORMATION: The Onagraceae family commonly called the Evening-Primrose family consists of 24 genera and 650 species of herbs, shrubs and a few trees; found mainly in temperate and subtropical regions.  Many family members are cultivated as ornamentals, including Evening Primroses and Fuchsias. The genus Oenothera either means “wine-scenting” since its roots were used for that purpose or “donkey-chase” from onos, “donkey” and thera, “chase, hunting”, or, “ass-catcher” or “wine-imbibing” from oinos “wine” and thera “imbibing”. Narrow-Leaved Sundrops are often found in meadows, fields and open woods, often in disturbed habitats. Another plant in this genus, Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis), has medicinal uses.  The oils from the flowers, leaves and stems have astringent and sedative properties.  Taken internally, preparations have been used to treat cough, digestive problems and asthma.  Poultices have been applied to treat rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and other itchy skin conditions.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.