Bee Blossom (Gaura)
Oenothera lindheimeri
A clumping perennial known for its wispy, wand-like stems and four-petaled white or pink flowers that resemble hovering butterflies or bees.
- Light
- Full sun (6+ hours per day). Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy and produce fewer blooms.
- Water
- Drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season; then only during extended dry periods. Sensitive to soggy roots.
- Growth
- Herbaceous perennial growing 2 to 5 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, forming an airy, upright bushy clump.
Care instructions
Low-maintenance plant; requires full sun and well-draining soil. Do not overwater or over-fertilize, as this leads to floppy stems. Deadhead spent flower wands to encourage a second flush of blooms.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours per day). Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy and produce fewer blooms.
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the first growing season; then only during extended dry periods. Sensitive to soggy roots.
Soil
Well-drained sandy or loamy soil; pH 5.5 to 7.0. Thrives in poor soil.
Hardiness zone
5 through 9
Growth habit
Herbaceous perennial growing 2 to 5 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, forming an airy, upright bushy clump.
Bloom season
Early summer to early fall; flowers open white and fade to pink, featuring long, elegant stamens.
Propagation
Easily propagated by basal cuttings in spring or by seed. Often self-seeds in the garden.
Common pests & issues
Relatively pest-free but can be affected by aphids or spider mites. Root rot occurs in poorly drained soils; rust and powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions.
Similar species
Gaura biennis (hairy/biennial gaura) is taller and more aggressive; Clarkia species have similar flower structures but different growth habits.