Siskiyou Pink Whirling Butterflies

Siskiyou Pink is a clump-forming gaura with rose-pink flowers that open from dark maroon buds on wiry, upright or arching stems. The blooms move easily in the breeze and continue over a long spring-to-fall season, while the narrow leaves can show green and burgundy tones. ## Growth and seasonal display NC State Extension describes a mature plant about 2½–3 feet tall and similarly wide; Missouri Botanical Garden gives the same range. NVK Nurseries reports a somewhat smaller 60–70 cm height and 60–80 cm spread, so the display ranges below retain those differences rather than implying a single exact size. Flowers are rose pink, with deep maroon buds, and usually open a few at a time. See the [NC State Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/oenothera-lindheimeri-siskiyou-pink/common-name/gaura/) and [Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder](https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?chr=24&cv=5&hf=2&ht=5&isprofile=0&taxonid=245598&z=5). ## Siting Use full sun or light afternoon shade and provide good drainage. Sandy, loamy, or clay soil can work when it does not stay waterlogged. Leave room for the airy stems, or place the plant beside sturdy perennials that can support them. Published hardiness ranges vary: NC State reports USDA zones 5a–9b, while Missouri Botanical Garden lists zones 5–8. ## Maintenance Water new plants through establishment, then let the soil drain well between waterings. Avoid overly rich soil, which encourages soft leaf growth and less flowering. Remove spent flower spikes to tidy the clump and cut back in late spring if stems become loose or floppy. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, and the stems can be used for cutting.