White Gaura Oenothera lindheimeri Freefolk Rosy = 'Harrfolk' (G/v)
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ABOUT
Oenothera lindheimeri Freefolk Rosy, commonly known as White Gaura or Whirling Butterflies, is an ornamental plant that adds grace to any garden setting. This plant has a bushy and airy habit, with fine, slender stems that bear delicate flowers. The flowers are the highlight of this plant, exhibiting an attractive rosy pink hue that can add a splash of color to any landscape. The leaves of White Gaura are lance-shaped, adding to the fine-textured look of the plant. They are typically green, which provides a pleasant contrast against the brightly colored blooms. The flowers themselves have a unique appearance, with each petal splaying outwards, sometimes with a slightly ruffled or wavy edge that enhances their charm. The petals surround a set of long, prominent stamens that protrude from the center, adding an element of dimension to the bloom. White Gaura blooms over an extended period, usually from early summer to fall, providing a long-lasting display of color. The flowers are arranged loosely in elongated clusters, and they appear to flutter in the breeze like butterflies, which is why one of its common names is Whirling Butterflies. The overall effect of the blooming stems is that of a cloud of tiny butterflies dancing above the foliage. The rosy-pink flowers distinguish the 'Harrfolk' variety from other cultivars of White Gaura, which may have different shades ranging from white to pink. White Gaura's gracefulness and long blooming period make it a favorite among gardeners who wish to create a soft, naturalized look in their outdoor spaces. Its flowers and overall form also make it a lovely choice for cottage gardens or as an accent in perennial borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Onagraceae
Synonyms
Freefolk Rosy Gaura, Lindheimer's Beeblossom, White Gaura, Pink Gaura, Wand Flower, Whirling Butterflies
Common names
Gaura lindheimeri, Gaura parviflora, Liatris lindheimeri, Oenothera lindheimeri.
ToxicityTo humans
Gaura is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from Gaura for humans, meaning that ingesting parts of the plant typically does not pose a health risk and does not lead to symptoms of poisoning.
To pets
Gaura is not known to be toxic to pets either. It is considered safe around animals, and there should be no toxic consequences if pets ingest parts of this plant. There are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant as it is not considered poisonous to pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its attractive rosy-pink flowers.
- Drought Resistance: Well-suited for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens due to its low water requirements after establishment.
- Long Flowering Season: Offers a long bloom time from early summer to fall, providing sustained color and interest in the garden.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep beyond initial establishment, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Heat Tolerance: Thrives in hot conditions, making it suitable for warm climates or heat-reflective urban environments.
- Soil Adaptability: Adapts to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil conditions.
- Deer Resistance: Generally resistant to deer, which helps to prevent damage to the plant in areas with deer populations.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Gaura 'Harrfolk' can be used in moon gardens, as its white to pink flowers can appear luminous in the moonlight, creating a serene ambiance.
- They can serve as indicator plants in a garden due to their drought resistance, which can help signal when other less drought-resistant plants need watering.
- Their long blooming period could be used for extended pollen and nectar production, supporting beekeeping activities by providing forage for bees over a lengthy season.
- Can be used in educational settings like botanical gardens to demonstrate the beauty and utility of native plants in landscaping.
- Its stems and flowers can be used in floral arrangements as a filler, providing a delicate and airy texture to bouquets or centerpieces.
- Can be used in butterfly gardens to attract and provide a habitat for butterflies and other pollinators.
- Its resistance to pests and diseases makes it a low-maintenance option for ground cover in challenging garden spots where other plants might struggle.
- The plant's ability to thrive in poor soil can be harnessed for erosion control on slopes or areas with barren soil.
- Because of its height and growth pattern, the Gaura 'Harrfolk' can serve as a natural privacy screen when planted in groups along property lines.
- The interesting movement of the flowers in the breeze can be purposefully situated along walkways or seating areas to add an element of motion to the garden landscape.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Gaura is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Gaura is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience and Survival: Commonly known as Gaura, Oenothera lindheimeri symbolizes resilience and survival due to its ability to thrive in tough conditions and its drought-resistant nature.
- Purity and Innocence: The delicate white blooms of some Gaura varieties are often associated with purity and innocence.
- Adaptability: Gaura plants are adaptable, capable of growing in various soils and environmental conditions, thus symbolizing flexibility and the ability to prosper in changing circumstances.
- Transformation: The transition of Gaura flowers from pink to white can represent transformation and change, reflecting life's constant evolution.
- Peace and Serenity: The soft, waving movement of Gaura flowers in the breeze can evoke a sense of peace and calm, making it a symbol for tranquility.
WaterGaura lindheimeri 'Harrfolk' should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This practice encourages the plant to develop a deep root system, which makes it more drought-tolerant. In general, a thorough watering once a week should suffice. Adjust the frequency depending on the temperature and rainfall, with less water needed during cooler, wetter periods and more during hot, dry spells. Approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water should be used per plant for each watering session.
LightGaura lindheimeri 'Harrfolk' thrives best in full sun, which means it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this plant is in an area where it will receive unobstructed sun throughout most of the day. Partial shade is tolerated, but the plant may not flower as prolifically.
TemperatureGaura lindheimeri 'Harrfolk' prefers a temperate climate and can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 90°F. However, its ideal growing conditions are between 60°F and 70°F. Ensure that the plant is protected from freezing temperatures to prevent damage to the roots and foliage.
PruningGaura lindheimeri 'Harrfolk' should be pruned to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pruning should be done in early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the plant by about one-third. Removing spent flowers during the blooming season can also promote continued blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGaura, the most common name for Oenothera lindheimeri 'Harrfolk', thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part sand or perlite, which improves drainage and aeration. It prefers a soil pH between 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingGaura does not need frequent repotting; it may only require repotting once every two to three years to refresh the soil or if it has outgrown its container.
Humidity & MistingGaura is quite adaptable to various humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity conditions; it does not require high humidity and can tolerate dry air well.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Full sun, sheltered from strong winds, in well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleOenothera lindheimeri 'Harrfolk', commonly known as Gaura lindheimeri or Whirling Butterflies, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in well-drained soil with ample sunlight. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a rosette of foliage with slender, lance-shaped leaves. As it matures, it forms a clump of erect stems reaching up to 2-3 feet tall, and in late spring to early summer, it starts producing delicate flowers that are pink or white in color, resembling butterflies dancing in the wind. These flowers continue to bloom in succession from the bottom of the spike upwards, often until the first frost. After flowering, the plant sets seed which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing for self-propagation in favorable conditions. During winter or in colder climates, Oenothera lindheimeri 'Harrfolk' may die back to the ground, but it is perennial and typically re-emerges from its rootstock in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Oenothera lindheimeri, commonly known as Gaura or Wandflower, is best propagated through softwood cuttings. The ideal time for this is late spring or early summer when new growth is tender and green. To propagate by cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches long, just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to prevent excess moisture loss. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, making sure at least two nodes are buried where leaves were removed. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place the cutting in a warm area with bright, indirect light. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting out.
