perennialN. America Native

White Gaura

The Story

Plant Bio

Oenothera gaura is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial native to south-central North America, distinguished by its airy, open habit and exceptionally long blooming period. Wiry, arching stems rise from a basal rosette to bear narrow, lanceolate leaves and terminal spikes of delicate flowers that open a few at a time from late spring until the first frost.

The species features white flowers that gradually age to a soft pink, creating a multi-toned effect across the wand-like inflorescences. New foliage frequently emerges with a distinct reddish or bronze tint, occasionally developing maroon spots as the season progresses.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a long-lasting, airy texture in borders, with flowers that sway gently in the breeze.

Highly drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal water and thriving in poor soils.

Attracts a wide range of native bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48"

Width

30"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site that receives full sun to ensure strong stems and maximum flower production.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
Backfill with native soil without adding compost or fertilizer, as lean soil prevents flopping.
Water deeply to settle the soil, then restrict watering to periods of prolonged drought once established.

Pro Tip

Plant in lean, unamended soil with exceptional drainage; excess nutrients and rich organic matter cause the wiry stems to become weak, lush, and floppy.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide sharp-draining soil to prevent winter root rot.
Cut back spent flower spikes in mid-summer to stimulate a fresh flush of blooms.
Prune dead stems close to the ground in late winter before new growth begins.

Don't

Do not overwater or plant in low-lying areas where water collects.
Do not apply heavy fertilizers or rich organic mulches.
Do not attempt to transplant mature specimens, as the deep taproot resents disturbance.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Cottage GardensGravel GardensWildflower MeadowsBorder BackdropsContainers

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Penstemon digitalis Salvia nemorosa Schizachyrium scoparium

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Gaura questions

What zones can White Gaura grow in?

White Gaura is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Gaura deer resistant?

Yes — White Gaura is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does White Gaura bloom?

White Gaura typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Gaura need full sun?

White Gaura does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is White Gaura drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White Gaura handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.