Bloom Color

Interesting Notes

This gaura cultivar is a compact, clump-forming, vase-shaped perennial with wiry, arching red stems, pink flower buds and 4-petaled snow white flowers (1" diameter) which appear in long, terminal, wand-like panicles above the foliage over a very long late spring to autumn bloom period. Flowers open only a few at a time, and dance in the wind like butterflies, hence the cultivar name. Typically grows 2-3' tall. Differs from the species (C840) by being more compact and more floriferous with flowers being a brighter white. Narrow lance-shaped leaves (1-3" long) are sometimes spotted with maroon. Kemper Center for Home Gardening

A hardy perennial which is native to prairies, roadsides, and pond edges in the southern central and western United States and Mexico. Whirling Butterflies is crowned with graceful spikes of delicate white flowers which are blushed with pink all summer. This perennial has an airy and lovely habit and an extended bloom season that will continue through most of the growing season if deadheading is done regularly. The delicate four-petaled flowers open white and fade to pink as they age. Gaura self-sows freely and is tolerant of heat, drought and high humidity, making it ideal for the deep South. Division should be done after the first two or three years. Seeds germinate best at 65 to 75 degrees. Deeply cultivated soil will help to make the transition easier when transplanting seedlings or dividing. Sara's Garden Pages

University of Vermont Extension

Growing and Maintenance Tips

'Whirling Butterflies' needs excellent winter drainage and prefers well-drained, sandy, loamy soil. Found in prairies and roadsidesfrom Louisiana to Texas. Can tolerate heat, humidity and drought.This is a taprooted plant which can be propagated by seed or division after 2-3 years. Deadhead during the flowering season to promote bushier growth and more flower stems. Best used for borders,perennial gardens or naturalized areas.

Gauras need plenty of air in the soil for it to be long lived. It does very well in containers, along the top of a wall or in a raised bed. It's natural range spans from Louisiana to Texas. Deadhead during the flowering season to promote bushier growth and more flower stems. May self seed green-leafed plants if not cut back. Best used for xeriscaping, perennial gardens or containers.