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Gaura
Gaura, beeblossoms, butterfly plant, butterfly gaura; Onagraceae Family. Native to North America, the genus includes many species, most are perennials.
Gaura will grows best in sandy, loamy, well-drained soils, good drainage is essential. Plants may be cut back in late spring by 1/2 to control size. Gaura could self-seed if spent flower stems are not removed.
Attributes: Use as border plants, containers, for cut flowers, edging, and in mass plantings. Works in rock gardens, or as mid to background garden feature. Tolerates heat, humidity and some drought. Attracts butterflies, Deer resistant.
Gaura lindheimeri, commonly known as Gaura or wand flower, is a graceful and airy perennial that adds a touch of whimsy to any garden. With its delicate, dancing flowers that resemble butterflies, gaura is a favorite among gardeners for its long blooming season and ability to attract pollinators. This comprehensive guide provides essential information for gardeners interested in cultivating and enjoying gaura in their landscapes.
Gaura is a genus of flowering plants in the Onagraceae family, native to North America. Gaura lindheimeri, the most commonly cultivated species, is a clump-forming perennial with slender, branching stems that produce an abundance of delicate flowers. The flowers are typically white or pink and have four petals that resemble butterfly wings. Gaura thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for sunny borders, meadows, and wildflower gardens.
- Common Name: Gaura, wand flower, beeblossom, appleblossom grass
- Botanical Name: Gaura lindheimeri
- Growing Zones: 5-9
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Mature Size: 3 feet tall and wide
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-draining, light soils (tolerates clay if well-drained)
- Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
- Flower Color: White, pink
Gaura Varieties
While the species Gaura lindheimeri has white to pink flowers, there are many cultivars available with varying flower colors and growth habits. Some popular varieties include:
- 'Siskiyou Pink': This cultivar has deep pink flowers and a compact growth habit.
- 'Whirling Butterflies': This variety has white flowers with a pink tinge and a more upright growth habit.
- 'Corrie's Gold': This cultivar has variegated foliage with creamy yellow margins and white flowers.
- 'The Bride': This variety has pure white flowers and a graceful, airy habit.
Planting and Care
Gaura is a relatively low-maintenance plant but providing it with the right growing conditions will ensure it thrives in your garden.
- Planting: Gaura can be planted in spring or fall. However, only plant perennial varieties in the fall, as annuals will die with frosty weather. Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil. Space plants about a foot apart to allow for adequate air circulation.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, gaura is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilizing: Gaura does not require much fertilizer. Too much rich soil can make it floppy. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is usually sufficient.
- Pruning: Cut back the spent stems by half after the first bloom to encourage new tidy growth and repeat flowers.
- Deadheading: Deadheading spent flowers can prolong the blooming season.
Pests and Diseases
Gaura is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Landscaping with Gaura
Gaura's delicate flowers and airy habit make it a versatile plant for various landscaping applications:
- Borders: Gaura adds a touch of whimsy to borders and can be combined with other perennials, annuals, and ornamental grasses.
- Meadows and Wildflower Gardens: Gaura is a natural choice for meadows and wildflower gardens, where it can naturalize and provide a long season of bloom.
- Containers: Gaura can be grown in containers to add a touch of elegance to patios, balconies, and decks.
- Cut Flowers: The long-lasting blooms of gaura make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.
Companion Plants
Gaura pairs well with a variety of plants that share its preference for full sun and well-drained soil. Some suitable companions include:
- Ornamental Grasses: The fine texture of ornamental grasses, such as Pennisetum, provides a beautiful contrast to the delicate flowers of gaura.
- Salvia: The spiky blooms of Salvia complement the airy habit of gaura.
- Catmint (Nepeta): The purple flowers of catmint create a striking contrast with the white or pink flowers of gaura.
- Coneflower (Echinacea): The similar flower shape and contrasting colors of coneflower create a dynamic combination with gaura.
- Russian Sage (Perovskia): The silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers of Russian Sage provide a cool contrast to the warm colors of gaura.
Gaura is a rewarding plant for gardeners of all levels. Its delicate flowers, long blooming season, and low-maintenance nature make it a valuable addition to any garden. By understanding its basic needs and exploring the variety of available cultivars, you can create a graceful and colorful landscape that thrives in full sun.
Gaura has undergone some recent taxonomic changes. Here is the lowdown:
Historically:
- Genus: Gaura
- Family: Onagraceae (the evening primrose family)
This is how many gardeners, and horticultural resources still refer to it.
Current Classification (as of 2007):
- Genus: Oenothera (evening primrose)
- Family: Onagraceae
Why the Change?
- Genetic Research: Studies showed that Gaura was not a distinct group but nested within the broader Oenothera genus. To maintain a scientifically accurate classification, they were merged.
What This Means:
- Scientific Name: The species most commonly known as gaura, Gaura lindheimeri, is now Oenothera lindheimeri.
- Common Names: Gardeners still widely use "gaura" or "beeblossom."
- Resources: You might find both names used in books, websites, and plant labels.
Full Current Taxonomy:
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Clade: Tracheophytes
- Clade: Angiosperms
- Clade: Eudicots
- Clade: Rosids
- Order: Myrtales
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Oenothera
- Species: 1 (e.g., Oenothera lindheimeri)
Important Note: Even though the scientific name has changed, the beauty and gardenworthiness of these plants remain the same!
Even though Gaura is now classified within the Oenothera genus, it still has a distinctive appearance. Here is a look at the morphology of those commonly called "Gaura":
Overall Form:
- Herbaceous Perennials: They die back to the ground in winter (in colder climates) but return from their rootstock each spring.
- Clump-forming: They tend to grow in upright clumps with slender, often branching stems.
- Height: Varies by species and cultivar, but generally ranges from 1 to 5 feet tall.
Leaves:
- Arrangement: Alternate (arranged singly along the stem).
- Shape: Typically lance-shaped to oblong, tapering to a point.
- Margins: Can be smooth or slightly toothed.
- Color: Often green to gray-green, but some cultivars have reddish or bronze tints.
- Basal Rosette: Many gaura plants form a basal rosette of leaves at the base of the plant.
Flowers:
- Inflorescence: The flowers are borne on long, slender, wiry stems that rise above the foliage. They are arranged in loose, open clusters called racemes.
- Flower Shape: Each flower has four petals, often with a delicate, almost spidery appearance. The petals are often unequal in size and may have a slightly cupped or twisted shape.
- Color: The most common colors are white and pink, but there are also cultivars with shades of red, rose, and even apricot.
- Blooming: Gaura are known for their long bloom period, often flowering from late spring to fall.
Fruit:
- Small Capsules: After the flowers fade, they produce small, nut-like capsules that contain the seeds.
Roots:
- Taproot: Gaura plants typically have a deep taproot, which helps them access water in dry conditions.
- Rhizomes: Some species may also spread by rhizomes (underground stems), but they are generally not considered invasive.
Variations:
- Species and Cultivars: There is some variation in flower color, size, and plant height among different gaura species and cultivars.
- Leaf Color: Some cultivars have variegated or darker foliage.
Adaptations:
- Drought Tolerance: The deep taproot and slender leaves help gaura plants conserve water, making them well-suited to dry conditions.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Wind pollination: The long, flexible stems allow the flowers to move in the breeze, aiding in wind pollination.
This combination of features - the airy flowers, long bloom period, and adaptability - makes gaura a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Gaura (or Oenothera, if we are being scientifically precise) is a delight to grow, bringing airy grace and long-lasting blooms to the garden. Here is a guide to successful gaura cultivation:
Planting
- Timing:
- Seeds: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after the last frost.
- Transplants: Plant young plants in spring or fall.
- Location:
- Sun: Gaura thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day). It can tolerate some light shade, but flowering will be best in full sun.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential. Sandy or loamy soils are ideal. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart, or according to the mature size of the specific cultivar.
Watering
- Establishment: Water regularly after planting to help the roots establish.
- Mature Plants: Once established, gaura is quite drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
- Light Feeders: Gaura does not require much fertilizer.
- Optional: You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring if desired. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to weak, floppy growth.
Maintenance
- Deadheading: Although not strictly necessary, deadheading (removing faded flowers) can encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding.
- Cutting Back: You can cut back the plants by about half their height in mid-summer to promote bushier growth and a second flush of blooms.
- Staking (Tall Varieties): Tall gaura varieties may benefit from staking to prevent flopping, especially in windy locations.
- Dividing: Every few years, divide clumps in spring or fall to maintain plant vigor.
Pests and Diseases
- Generally Hardy: Gaura is relatively pest and disease-free.
- Potential Issues: Watch out for powdery mildew, rust, or root rot (in poorly drained soil).
Additional Tips
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, you can provide some winter protection by mulching around the base of the plants.
- Attracting Pollinators: Gaura flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
- Cut Flowers: The delicate blooms make lovely additions to cut flower arrangements.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the airy beauty and easy care of gaura in your garden.
Spring
- Early Spring (March - April):
- Cleanup: Remove any winter mulch and clear away any debris or dead foliage from around the base of the plants.
- Divide Overgrown Clumps: If the plants are overcrowded or the centers are dying out, divide them in early spring.
- Planting: If starting new plants, sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or outdoors after the last frost has passed. Transplant young plants into the garden.
- Mid-Spring (May):
- Fertilize (Optional): Apply a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if desired.
Summer
- Early Summer (June - July):
- Enjoy the Blooms: Gaura typically begins flowering in early summer.
- Deadhead (Optional): If desired, remove faded flower spikes to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding.
- Mid-Summer (August):
- Cut Back: To promote bushier growth and a second flush of blooms, cut back the plants by about half their height.
- Water During Drought: Provide supplemental watering during prolonged dry periods.
- Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, rust, or any signs of insect pests.
- Stake Tall Varieties: If necessary, provide support for tall varieties to prevent flopping.
Fall
- Early Fall (September):
- Continue Deadheading (Optional): Keep removing spent blooms to prolong the flowering season as long as possible.
- Late Fall (October - November):
- Cut Back Foliage: After the first frost, cut back the foliage to a few inches above the ground.
- Winter Protection: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. 1
Winter
- Winter (December - February):
- Minimal Care: Gaura are mostly dormant during the winter. No watering or fertilizing is needed.
Important Notes
- Climate Considerations: This calendar is a general guide for temperate climates. You may need to adjust the timing based on your specific location and conditions.
- Rejuvenation: Every 2-3 years, dividing the clumps helps to maintain plant vigor and prevent overcrowding.
By following this care calendar, you can ensure your gaura plants stay healthy, vibrant, and continue to provide a beautiful display of airy blooms in your garden year after year.
The diversity within gaura (remembering it is now officially Oenothera)! Here is how it breaks down:
1. Species:
While Oenothera lindheimeri is the most commonly cultivated, there are other species sometimes found in gardens:
- Oenothera biennis (Common Evening Primrose): A biennial species with yellow flowers that open in the evening.
- Oenothera speciosa (Pinkladies): A spreading species with pink flowers.
- Oenothera fruticosa (Sundrops): Upright species with yellow flowers, often day-blooming.
2. Groups (Informal):
These are not formal botanical groups, but ways to think about gaura for garden use:
- Height: Tall, medium, or dwarf varieties.
- Flower Color: White, pink, red, and bi-color forms.
- Growth Habit: Upright or more spreading.
3. Varieties (Botanical):
- These are naturally occurring variations within a species. While some exist, they are not as common in cultivation as cultivars.
4. Cultivars (Where the Real Diversity Is!):
This is where breeders have focused their efforts, leading to a wide array of gaura options:
- 'Siskiyou Pink': Popular, with deep pink flowers and a compact habit.
- 'Whirling Butterflies': White flowers with a fluttering appearance on tall stems.
- 'Corrie's Gold': Variegated foliage with creamy margins.
- 'Pink Cloud': Abundant, rosy pink flowers on a compact plant.
- 'Passionate Blush': Dense, upright habit with masses of pink flowers.
- 'Sparkle White': Early and abundant white blooms.
- 'Ballerina Blush': Compact with pink flowers and a long bloom time.
- 'Gaudi Red': Deep red-pink foliage and vibrant pink flowers.
Why Cultivars Matter:
- Compactness: Many cultivars are bred for smaller spaces.
- Flower Color: Expanded range of pinks, reds, and bi-colors.
- Longer Bloom: Some cultivars have an even more extended flowering season.
- Foliage Interest: Variegated or colorful foliage adds another dimension.
Finding Information:
- Local Nurseries: The best way to see cultivar differences firsthand.
- Online Plant Databases: Resources like the Missouri Botanical Garden's Plant Finder let you search cultivars.
- Breeder Websites: Companies specializing in gaura often display their new introductions.
Gaura is a stunning choice for mass plantings, creating a hazy, cloud-like effect with its delicate blooms and airy texture. Here is why it works so well and how to use it to its full potential:
Why Gaura excels in mass plantings:
- Movement and Texture: The slender, swaying stems and delicate flowers create a sense of movement and lightness in the landscape, especially when planted in large drifts.
- Long Bloom Season: Gaura blooms for an extended period, typically from late spring to fall, providing continuous color and interest.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, gaura can tolerate dry conditions, making it suitable for mass planting in water-wise gardens.
- Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the ecological value of your garden.
- Naturalistic Look: Gaura's informal, almost wildflower-like appearance lends itself well to naturalistic plantings and meadow gardens.
Tips for Mass Planting Gaura:
- Spacing: Space plants about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart, or according to the mature size of the specific cultivar.
- Soil Preparation: Ensure well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Choose a location with full sun for optimal flowering.
- Cultivar Selection: Consider the mature height and color of different cultivars when planning your design. Some cultivars are more compact and suitable for smaller spaces, while others have a taller, more upright habit.
Design Ideas for Mass Planting
- Meadow Effect: Create a naturalistic meadow by planting gaura in irregular drifts or clusters, intermingling it with other perennials and grasses.
- Borders and Edging: Use gaura to define borders, pathways, or garden beds.
- Color Blending: Plant large swaths of a single color for a bold statement, or combine different colors for a softer, more nuanced look.
- Mixed Plantings: Integrate gaura into mixed perennial beds, allowing its airy blooms to weave through other plants.
Recommended Cultivars for Mass Planting
- 'Whirling Butterflies': Tall, with white flowers that create a fluttering effect.
- 'Siskiyou Pink': Compact, with deep pink flowers.
- 'Pink Cloud': Compact, with abundant rosy pink flowers.
- 'Passionate Blush': Dense, upright habit with masses of pink flowers.
By following these tips and letting your creativity flow, you can create a stunning and low-maintenance landscape using gaura in mass plantings.
Gaura FAQ
Here are some of the key characteristics of Gaura plants:
- Perennial: Gaura is a herbaceous perennial, meaning it dies back in the winter but returns year after year.
- Native: They are native to Texas, Louisiana, and Mexico.
- Appearance: Gaura forms clumps with lance-shaped leaves that are green or burgundy depending on the variety [4, 6]. They have tall, wiry stems that reach heights of 15 inches to 4 feet, though some cultivars are more compact.
- Flowers: The star of the show is the flowers! Gaura boasts butterfly-like flowers in shades of white, pink, or a combination of the two [1, 4]. They bloom throughout summer and into fall.
- Low-maintenance: Gaura is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in hot, dry conditions. They are drought-tolerant due to their long taproot that stores water.
- Sun lover: These plants prefer full sun exposure.
- Well-drained soil: Soggy soil is the enemy of Gaura, so ensure they are planted in well-draining soil.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators
There are two main ways to plant Gaura: from seeds or with nursery starts. Here is a breakdown for each:
Planting from Seeds:
- Timing: You can sow Gaura seeds directly in your garden after the last frost of spring. Alternatively, you can start them indoors 6 weeks before the last frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Planting with Nursery Starts:
- Digging the hole: Prepare the planting site by digging a hole as deep and wide as the container the plant came in.
- Loosen the roots: Gently loosen the roots of the plant from the root ball before placing it in the hole.
- Planting: Set the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down lightly.
- Watering: Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Here are some additional tips for planting Gaura:
- Spacing: Allow for enough space between plants when planting. Taller varieties may need up to a foot of space around them.
- Transplanting: Gaura has a long taproot, which makes transplanting established plants difficult. So, choose your planting location carefully.
- Fertilizer: Avoid over-fertilizing Gaura, as this can cause the plant to flop over.
With a little planning and care, you can enjoy the beautiful blooms of Gaura in your garden for many seasons to come!
There are many varieties of Gaura, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Sparkle White': This variety is known for its early and abundant blooms of white flowers. It is a compact plant, reaching only 18 inches tall, and is perfect for borders or containers.
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Passionate Blush': This variety has a dense, upright habit and produces masses of pink flowers throughout the summer. It is also a compact plant, reaching only 18 inches tall.
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Gaudi Red': This variety has deep, red-pink foliage that gives rise to airy, vibrant pink flowers atop dark pink stems. It is a taller variety, reaching up to 24 inches tall.
- aura lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies': This variety has rose-pink flowers that flutter in the breeze, resembling butterflies. It is a medium-sized variety, reaching up to 3 feet tall.
- Gaura lindheimeri 'Little Janie': This variety is a dwarf selection that is perfect for small gardens. It only reaches 12 inches tall and produces pink flowers throughout the summer.
Caring for Gaura in your garden is relatively simple, as they are low-maintenance plants. Here is a breakdown of their key needs:
Sunlight: Gaura thrives in full sun locations. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering: Gaura tolerates drought well due to their long taproot, which stores water. Water them deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial for Gaura. Sandy or rocky soil is ideal. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Fertilizer: Gaura generally does not require much fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow leggy and produce fewer flowers. If your plants look weak, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring may be beneficial.
Pruning: To encourage bushier growth and repeat flowering, you can prune Gaura after the first flush of blooms. Simply cut back the spent flower stems by about half. You can also give them a light pruning in late fall or early spring to remove any dead or diseased growth.
Winter Care: Gaura is generally cold-hardy down to USDA zone 5 (around -20°F). In colder climates, you can mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the roots from winter freezes. Alternatively, you can treat Gaura as an annual and replant them each spring.
By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Gaura plants thrive and bring beauty to your garden throughout the summer and into fall.
Yes, Gaura plants are absolutely known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies! They have several features that make them attractive to these beneficial insects:
- Nectar-rich flowers: Gaura boasts beautiful flowers that come in shades of white, pink, or a combination of the two. These flowers are rich in nectar, a sugary substance that is a valuable food source for pollinators.
- Long blooming period: Gaura is a superstar when it comes to bloom time. They continuously produce flowers throughout summer and into fall. This extended bloom period provides a reliable source of nectar for pollinators throughout the season.
- Butterfly-friendly flowers: The shape and size of Gaura flowers, with their delicate petals and often four-lobed structure, are ideal for butterflies to access the nectar inside.
By attracting pollinators to your garden, Gaura plants not only benefit from improved pollination for seed production, but they also contribute to the health of the ecosystem by supporting these essential creatures.
While Gaura is a low-maintenance plant, there are a few common pests and diseases that can affect them. Here is a breakdown of the most common ones:
Pests:
- Aphids: These tiny, sap-sucking insects can cluster on the new growth of Gaura, stunting the plant's growth. You can often control them with a strong blast of water from your hose or by using insecticidal soap.
- Leaf miners: These small insects create winding tunnels within the leaves of your Gaura. While they are unsightly, they are usually not a major threat to the plant's health. However, if the infestation is severe, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: In dry conditions, spider mites can become a problem for Gaura. These tiny mites suck the sap out of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop. You can control them with insecticidal soap or by introducing natural predators like ladybugs.
- Whiteflies: These small, flying insects can also suck the sap out of Gaura leaves. Look for the telltale signs of whiteflies, which are tiny white specks flying around the plant when disturbed. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective in controlling them.
Diseases:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can be a problem for Gaura, especially in poorly drained soil. It can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow, and the plant may eventually die. The best way to prevent root rot is to ensure your Gaura is planted in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as white powdery spots on the leaves of Gaura. It thrives in cool, humid conditions. You can prevent powdery mildew by ensuring good air circulation around your plants. If it does occur, a fungicide can be used to control it.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes orange or brown spots to develop on the leaves of Gaura. It can also cause the leaves to drop prematurely. Similar to powdery mildew, good air circulation can help prevent rust. Fungicides can also be used to treat rust outbreaks.
By keeping an eye out for these potential problems and taking steps to prevent them or address them promptly, you can help ensure your Gaura plants stay healthy and continue to thrive in your garden.
The use of Gaura in floral arrangements is a bit of a double-edged sword. Here is why:
- Short vase life: While the flowers on a Gaura plant are beautiful in the garden, they are not known for having a long lifespan once cut. They tend to wilt and droop fairly quickly, sometimes within just a day.
- Delicate blooms: The delicate nature of the Gaura flowers can also make them challenging to work with in arrangements. They can be easily damaged during handling and transport.
However, there are some circumstances where Gaura might be a suitable choice for a floral arrangement:
- Short-lived arrangements: If you are creating an arrangement that is meant to be enjoyed for a short period of time, such as a centerpiece for a casual dinner party, Gaura could be an option.
- Using specific cultivars: Some Gaura cultivars, like 'Sparkle White' or 'Little Janie', are known for having slightly sturdier stems that might hold up a bit better in a vase.
- Experienced florist: An experienced florist with knowledge of handling delicate flowers may be able to incorporate Gaura into an arrangement successfully using special techniques to extend their vase life.
Overall, it is best to manage expectations when using Gaura in floral arrangements. They may not be the most practical choice for long-lasting displays, but with the right approach, they can add a touch of airy beauty to a short-lived arrangement.
The invasiveness of Gaura depends on the specific species and your location. Here is a breakdown:
- Gaura lindheimeri (formerly Oenothera lindheimeri): This is the most commonly cultivated species of Gaura and is not generally considered invasive. It is native to Texas, Louisiana, and Mexico. While it can self-seed, it typically does not spread aggressively and is well-behaved in most gardens.
- Gaura coccinea: This is a different species of Gaura that can be invasive in some parts of the United States, particularly the Northeast [5]. It is important to check with your local authorities or gardening resources to see if Gaura coccinea is listed as a problem plant in your area before planting it
Here are some resources to help you determine if Gaura is invasive in your area:
- The Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States: https://www.invasiveplantatlas.org/
- Your local Cooperative Extension Service: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/
By checking these resources before planting Gaura, you can be sure you are choosing a variety that will not become a nuisance in your garden.
There are two main methods for propagating Gaura: through stem cuttings and from seeds. The best time for each method differs slightly:
- Stem cuttings: The ideal time to take stem cuttings for Gaura propagation is in early summer. This is typically between late June and early July [4]. During this period, the stems are soft and actively growing, which increases their chances of rooting successfully.
- Seeds: Gaura seeds can be sown in two different windows:
- Spring: You can sow Gaura seeds directly outdoors in your garden after the danger of frost has passed in the spring. This usually occurs around late March to mid-April depending on your climate.
- Indoors: Alternatively, you can start Gaura seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This method gives the seedlings a head start on the growing season and allows them to mature before being transplanted outdoors.
Here is a quick summary table to help you remember:
|
Propagation Method |
Best Time |
|
Stem Cuttings |
Early Summer (Late June - Early July) |
|
Seeds (Outdoors) |
Spring (After Last Frost - Late March to Mid-April) |
|
Seeds (Indoors) |
6 Weeks Before Last Frost |
Here are some of the key benefits of planting Gaura in your garden:
- Long-lasting blooms: Gaura boasts beautiful butterfly-like flowers that continuously bloom throughout summer and into fall, providing months of color in your garden.
- Low-maintenance: Gaura is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in hot, dry conditions [4]. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering or fertilizing.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers of Gaura attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators to your garden, which can help improve pollination for other plants and promote a healthy ecosystem.
- Heat and drought tolerant: Gaura is a great choice for gardeners in hot climates or areas that experience dry spells. Their long taproot stores water, allowing them to withstand periods of drought.
- Deer resistant: Deer tend to avoid Gaura due to its slender stems, delicate leaves, and lack of a strong scent. This makes them a good option for gardens prone to deer browsing.
- Variety of colors and sizes: There are many varieties of Gaura available, offering a range of flower colors (white, pink, or a combination) and plant sizes to suit your garden design.
- Easy to care for: Gaura is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and pest and disease problems.
Overall, Gaura is a versatile and low-maintenance flowering plant that offers a multitude of benefits for gardeners. They provide long-lasting blooms, attract pollinators, and tolerate hot and dry conditions, making them a great addition to a variety of garden styles.