Golden Suncup
Oenothera brevipes
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Pl. FA2B — Oenothera brevipes
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IOverview
Overview
Golden Suncup (Oenothera brevipes) is an annual plant native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. Known for its light requirements, this species thrives in full sun but can tolerate dry or moist conditions. It prefers well-drained soils that are either sandy or medium-textured. Golden Suncup reaches a height of about 0.3 meters and is valued not only for its ornamental appeal but also as an edible plant. Its leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots are all considered edible parts, making it a versatile choice for those interested in incorporating wild edibles into their diet.
Quick answers
What is Golden Suncup?
Golden Suncup (Oenothera brevipes) is an annual plant native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. Known for its light requirements, this species thrives in full sun but can tolerate dry or moist conditions. It prefers well-drained soils that are either sandy or medium-textured.
What is Golden Suncup used for?
Traditionally used for topical & skin, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Golden Suncup
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Golden Suncup has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for topical applications to support skin health. A poultice or salve made from the leaves may help soothe minor irritations and promote healing.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and irritation.
- Golden Suncup, like other Oenothera species, has been traditionally used in Native American medicine for digestive issues. A decoction of the roots or leaves may help soothe an upset stomach and promote healthy digestion.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds that interact with gut motility and inflammation pathways.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Golden Suncup support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Golden Suncup thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist environments. This annual plant grows to about 0.3 meters tall and is native to Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains not overly wet; it is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate via seed, as this method works well for Golden Suncup. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, roots, seeds, and shoots throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Golden Suncup for the first time
8steps
Start with Golden Suncup by planting seeds in a sunny spot, and you'll have a rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Golden Suncup seeds, small pots or direct garden space, potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Golden Suncup in spring after the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose a mix that is light and sandy.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden or start them indoors 4 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Place a mulch layer if needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune dead leaves as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any yellowing foliage to encourage new growth and a fuller plant.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune dead leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRootSeedSeedpodShoots
Edible uses: The Golden Suncup's leaves, roots, seeds, and seedpods are all edible. Typically, the plant is harvested when young and tender for consumption raw or cooked in various dishes. The seeds can also be dried and used as a food source. Shoots may be eaten fresh or prepared in salads.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 4 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
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