Whirling Butterflies Gaura Lindheimeri
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Baker County Extension Alicia R. Lamborn Environmental Horticulture Agent 1025 West Macclenny Avenue Macclenny, FL 32063 904-259-3520 email: [email protected] http://baker.ifas.ufl.edu Whirling Butterflies Gaura lindheimeri Plant Description: Gaura, also known as Whirling Butterflies, has an abundance of delicate pink or white flowers which hover on long stems above the foliage like little butterflies, hence the common name. The foliage is typically green, although many cultivars are available, some with reddish foliage and some more compact than others. Blooming most of the year, this is a great low maintenance perennial for cottage gardens, butterfly gardens, mass planting or as part of a mixed border. Mature Size: 1-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide Growth Rate: Moderate Plant Habit: Clumping Ornamental Characteristics & Uses: Foliage Color: Cultivars vary: green; gray-green; green-white-pink; crimson Flower Color: Pink or White Bloom Time: Spring – Fall Attracts Wildlife: Butterflies and other pollinators Uses: Landscapes, Containers, Mass Planting Growing Requirements: Cold Hardiness Zone(s): 7 – 9 (may depend on cultivar) Exposure: Full Sun – Partial Sun Water Needs: Low Soil Tolerances: High Drought Tolerance; Requires Well-Drained Soils Soil pH: Slightly Acid to Slightly Alkaline Maintenance: Easy/Low General Care & Growing Tips: Flowers and performs best in full sun. Deadheading and pruning are not necessary. Transplanting can be difficult due to the plant’s taproot system. Common Pests: Susceptible to leaf-spot fungi and powdery mildew. References: Park Brown, S. and Schoellhorn, R. K. (2006). Your Florida Guide to Perennials. University Press of Florida. Wichman, T., Knox, G., Gilman, E., Sandrock, D., Schutzman, B., Alvarez, E., Schoellhorn, R., and Larson, B. (2006). Florida-Friendly Plant List. Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Handbook. University of Florida. Photo Credit: Alicia Lamborn The Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) is an Equal Opportunity Institution authorized to provide research, educational information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function with non-discrimination with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Florida, IFAS, Florida A. & M. University Cooperative Extension Program, and Boards of County Commissioners Cooperating. 2013 .