Gaura, commonly known as Butterfly Bush or Bee Blossom, is a hardy flowering perennial loved for its graceful, airy display of pink or white flowers. Held on long, slender stems above the foliage, the delicate blooms dance in the breeze like butterflies, bringing beautiful movement and colour to the garden from spring through autumn.
Ideal for cottage gardens, borders, pathways, mixed garden beds, rockeries and pots, Gaura has a relaxed natural habit that combines beautifully with other flowering perennials such as lavender, salvias and sedums. Its long flowering season also attracts bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators, making it an excellent addition to wildlife-friendly gardens and areas near vegetable gardens and orchards.
Gaura performs best in full sun and well-drained soil, although it will tolerate some part shade. Water regularly while establishing; once established, its deep root system makes it tolerant of heat and dry conditions. Avoid wet or poorly drained soils, particularly during winter.
Light pruning throughout the flowering season can encourage fresh growth and further blooms, while a harder prune after flowering helps maintain a compact, tidy plant.
Position: Full sun to part shade
Flowering: Spring to autumn
Flowers: Pink or white, depending on variety
Water: Moderate while establishing; drought tolerant once established
Soil: Well-drained soil
Uses: Garden beds, borders, cottage gardens, rockeries and pots
Attracts: Bees, butterflies and beneficial pollinators
