Gaura

Gaura lindheimeri

Also known as Whirling Butterflies because of its unusual shaped flowers, you will be pleasantly surprised with this native in your landscape setting. The flowers are in shades of white or pink and a little bit whimsical, especially in our Oklahoma winds. They actually look like butterflies fluttering, hence the common name. Gaura will reach about 3-5' in height and about a 3-4' spread. They will bloom all summer in the right conditions.

When To Plant: Plant in the spring or summer. You may also start from seed in late winter.

Where To Plant: Use this as a background border in the garden where it will get full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but no more than 3-4 hours. It likes moist soil, but has to have good drainage. We suggest amending your soil if you haven't in the last couple of years. Back to Nature of Hu-More are both good soil amendments. Also a slow release fertilizer is a good idea early in the spring.

How To Plant: Dig the planting hole twice the size but no deeper than the pot. Space the plants about 2-4' apart. Water in well, and mulch to control weed growth and retain moisture.

Care & Maintenance: The plants bloom all summer and require little or no pruning. Over-fertilizing will make them more open and less bushy. You may have an occasional spider mite, and leaf spot can also be a problem. Good air movement is essential to keep pests away, and keep the whimsical movement of the blooms free flowing.

Quick Notes:

• Full sun.
• Ht: 16-18".
• Spacing: 24-48"
• Blooms summer to fall.
• Zones:5-9