Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’ | Plant Profile

Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’ (Gaura lindheimeri) are small to medium, clump forming perennials that are native to the American south. The stems are long, thin, and arching with white flower panicles that rise above the rest of the foliage. The flowers bloom only a few at a time for an extremely long flowering season. The name comes from the sparse flowers that resemble hovering butterflies in the wind.

‘Whirling Butterflies’ prefers medium moisture and very well drained soils in full sun.

‘Whirling Butterflies’ are attractive features for wildflower gardens or sunny borders. The flowers bloom from May to September and attract beneficial insects throughout the growing season. ‘Whirling Butterflies’ benefit from being planted in groups, as the long stems may become leggy and flop. Multiple plants can give each other support. To control the size, cut the foliage to about half of the size in late spring.