Gaura Large-Flowered

Oenothera filiformis (formerly Gaura longiflora, G. biennis)

Characteristics

Culture

Large-Flowered Gaura is a great option in prairie plantings because of its ability to establish itself quickly and provide late season blooms. The native range is focused largely in the South and Great Plains. Large-Flowered Gaura prefers full sunlight and moderately moist habitat conditions; although it tolerates many kinds of soil, including those containing loam, clay, gravel, or sand. Plants should be spaced 10 to 18 inches apart so that they have plenty of space to grow.  This plant can easily be grown from seed.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Large-Flowered Gaura is a tall annual or biennial with an erect stalk, branching near the top, and often hairy stems or leaves. Fragrant flowers on long, many-flowered spikes and are 4-parted. The 4 petals are all positioned in the upper half of the flower, opening at dusk, pointing upward and are white at first, turning pink later; they are curved back and about ⅝ inch long; the 8 stamens point forward and curve downward. The overall effect looks like a small butterfly. The stigma has 4 lobes. Blooms June–October. Stem leaves alternate, sessile, lance-shaped with widely spaced teeth, to 4 inches long. Small leaflets arise at the bases of larger leaves.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems noted.

Garden Uses

Prairie plantings, pollinator gardens.