Overview
Gaura leindheimeri is a perennial herb in the genus Gaura, part of the Onagraceae family. Gaura leindheimeri grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, wildflower gardens and naturalized areas. It is native to Texas and USA.
About
Gaura leindheimeri is an herbaceous plant in the genus Gaura notable for its tall flowering stems that can reach around 2 m. It produces a basal rosette of leaves, with stems leafy on the lower sections and branched above. Most plants in the group are perennial with sturdy rhizomes and reproduce both by seed and by spreading rhizomes, often forming dense clumps. Flowers have four petals and are zygomorphic, with the petals directed somewhat upwards.
About the genus
Gaura was a genus of flowering plants in the family Onagraceae, native to North America. The name was derived from Greek γαῦρος (gaûros) meaning "superb" and named in reference to the stature and floral display of some species in this genus.
In the garden
Gaura leindheimeri belongs to the group commonly known as beeblossoms and is native to North America; taxonomic treatments have placed Gaura within Oenothera in recent revisions. Plants are herbaceous and, where perennial, develop sturdy rhizomes that allow them to spread and form dense patches. Flowering stems rise from a basal rosette, are leafy on the lower stem and branch towards the top, and can reach about 2 m tall. Propagation is by seed and by rhizome growth, so expect both flowering-season seed set and vegetative spread. That habit means it can crowd adjacent plants if given no management, so allow it space or a planting position where expansion is acceptable. The flowers are built on a four-petalled, zygomorphic plan with petals angled upwards, and the upper flowering stems are typically more open and branched than the lower leafy section. In a UK garden the plant suits locations where its tall stems can be displayed and where its tendency to form clumps will not overwhelm neighbours; it mixes with taller herbaceous perennials or in more informal, open plantings. The fruit develops as an indehiscent nut-like body containing reddish-brown seeds, which contribute to both its spread and its lifecycle in the border.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gaura
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral to slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moderate, drought tolerant
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- open, sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Gaura leindheimeri size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herb
- Suggested uses
- borders, wildflower gardens, naturalized areas
- Native to
- Texas, USA
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gaura leindheimeri
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Gaura leindheimeri?
Prefers well-drained soil and full sun; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Gaura leindheimeri?
Gaura leindheimeri prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits open and sheltered positions.
What soil does Gaura leindheimeri need?
Gaura leindheimeri grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate to drought tolerant.
How do I prune Gaura leindheimeri?
Cut back after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Is Gaura leindheimeri hardy in the UK?
Gaura leindheimeri has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Gaura leindheimeri?
Seed, division.
