How to grow gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Gaura, or Oenothera lindheimeri (previously Gaura lindheimeri), are pretty deciduous perennials that look great in cottage garden-style or informal plantings. Gaura have a relaxed habit with small, starry flowers in white or pink, appearing from early summer to autumn. They are perfect for filling gaps, and can also be grown in containers in an informal combination with grasses and trailing plants.

The botanical genus name Gaura has recently been subsumed into the genus Oenothera, which also includes evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), hence the change of official name from Gaura lindheimeri to Oenothera lindheimeri. However, they are still usually referred to as gaura as a common name, and often sold under their old botanical name.

How to grow gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Grow gaura in moist but free-draining soil in full sun to partial shade. Cut back after flowering and divide large clumps in spring.

Where to grow gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Gauras are prairie plants native to the southern states of the USA and Mexico, and therefore do best in a warm and sunny position, although they tolerate a little shade. For best results grow them in moist but free-draining soil.

Planting gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Dig a generous hole and fork a handful of grit into the bottom to improve drainage, as gaura hates to sit in water. Place the rootball in the hole so it sits at the same depth it was in its pot and backfill with soil. Firm in gently and water well.

If planting out new gaura, make sure they aren't crowded in too much by their neighbours, or they could be swamped. One way to avoid this is by planting out fairly late, once the late-spring and early-summer performers have peaked in July. By this time of year, well-cared-for gaura in their pots will have bulked up somewhat and should be able to hold their own. You will, however, need to make sure the plant is well watered through summer.

How to care for gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Gauras don't need a lot of maintenance. Cut back and divide congested clumps in mid-spring, but don't try moving or dividing more mature plants as they don't respond well.

Don't worry if dark spots appear on the leaves as this is normal. In autumn, when temperatures dip, gaura foliage turns lovely shades of red.

Pests and diseases

Gauras are generally peste and disease free.

How to propagate gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri)

Sow gaura seed in spring or take softwood or semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Make bushy plants by trimming your cuttings regularly.

Gaura varieties to try

Oenothera lindheimeri 'The Bride' – forms a mat of soft foliage that contrasts beautifully with its delicate, white flowers held on long, thin stems. It has a long flowering season that lasts from early summer well into autumn.

• Buy Oenothera lindheimeri 'The Bride' seeds from Suttons

Oenothera lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies' – its mat of grey-green foliage contrasts beautifully with its delicate, white-pink flowers.

• Buy Oenothera lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies' from Crocus

Oenothera lindheimeri 'Siskiyou Pink' – this lovely bright-pink variety makes an excellent cut flower.

• Buy Oenothera lindheimeri 'Siskiyou Pink' from Suttons

Oenothera lindheimeri 'Crimson Butterflies' – this compact variety has beautiful dark-pink blooms and works well at the front of a border.

• Buy Oenothera lindheimeri 'Crimson Butterflies' from Suttons