Oenothera lindheimeri (White Butterfly)

Oenothera lindheimeri (White Butterfly) pink flower cluster rising above narrow dark green foliage on thin stems.

Botanical names: Oenothera lindheimeri, Gaura lindheimeri

Common names: White Butterfly, Whirling Butterfly

Family: Onagraceae

Origin: Mexico

USDA Zone: 5-9

Plant form: Small

Mature height: 2-5 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Moderate

Flower color: Pink; white and off-white

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Gaura is an herbaceous perennial that grows in a loose, bushy clump 2-4ft tall with a spread of 2-3ft. The stems are slender and wiry, and covered with tiny hairs. The leaves are spoon shaped, with toothed margins. The flowers are produced above the foliage on erect spikes, that continue to elongate throughout the extended blooming period of late spring until autumn.

This is a plant for hot climates and dry soils.

Gaura does best in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade.

It is tolerant of drought. It has a long taproot and requires a well-drained soil.

Propagation: White gaura is easy to grow from seed, and usually will self sow. You also can divide the clumps in spring to start new plants.