White Gaura Oenothera lindheimeri 'The Bride' (G)

Water

White Gaura requires moderate watering, ideally when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water it thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deeply into the soil, which will encourage a strong root system. Generally, a good watering once a week of about one to one and a half gallons per plant should be sufficient, but this can vary depending on the climate and soil drainage. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, but be careful not to overwater as White Gaura is drought-tolerant and does not like soggy soil. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

White Gaura thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom profusely. It is best positioned in a spot where it receives morning light and protection from the harsh afternoon sun in excessively hot climates. However, in cooler climates, it can tolerate full day sun without any issues.

Temperature

White Gaura prefers warmer climates and is hardy in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature for White Gaura is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can tolerate summer temperatures higher than that. It should be protected from frost, which can damage its delicate foliage and flowers.

Pruning

White Gaura should be pruned to remove spent flowers and encourage continual blooming throughout the season. Pruning in the early spring can also help to maintain a compact growth habit and promote vigorous growth. It is typically pruned back to about a third of its size. Deadheading spent blooms regularly can also help to prolong the flowering period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Gaura lindheimeri 'The Bride' is well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Aim for a soil pH between 6.1 to 7.5. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot, using materials like perlite or sand to increase porosity.

Repotting

Gaura lindheimeri 'The Bride' does not require frequent repotting. Repot it every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil, or when it outgrows its current container. Spring is the best time to repot Gaura plants.

Humidity & Misting

Gaura lindheimeri 'The Bride' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average outdoor conditions. Although it prefers a drier environment, no specific humidity requirements need to be maintained.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Gaura 'The Bride' needs bright light, dry soil between watering, and good airflow indoor.

• Outdoor

  Plant Gaura 'The Bride' in full sun, well-drained soil, and space them well outdoors.

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Oenothera lindheimeri 'The Bride', commonly known as Gaura 'The Bride' or Whirling Butterflies, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically germinating in spring when soil temperatures warm up. After germination, the seedling establishes its root system and grows into a small rosette of leaves at ground level. As temperatures increase, the plant enters a rapid vegetative growth phase, developing long stems with lance-shaped leaves. Throughout summer and into fall, Gaura 'The Bride' produces its distinctive white to pink flowers on tall, slender spikes that flutter in the breeze, resembling butterflies – hence the common name. Once pollinated, these flowers turn into fruit capsules containing seeds, which mature and are released to propagate the next generation. In winter, the plant may die back, especially in colder climates, but if it's perennial in its growing zone, it will re-sprout from its root stock the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Oenothera lindheimeri 'The Bride', commonly known as White Gaura or Lindheimer's Beeblossom, is typically propagated by cuttings to preserve its varietal characteristics. The optimal time for taking cuttings is late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. This process involves selecting a healthy stem with several sets of leaves. Cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem section just below a node (where a leaf meets the stem), strip the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the remaining leaves are above the soil surface. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and in a warm area with indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.