White Gaura

White gaura is a clump-forming, airy perennial with slender stems that carry delicate white flowers, often opening from pink buds and fading toward pink. Its loose, long-flowering habit brings movement to sunny borders, pollinator plantings and naturalistic gardens. ## Flowers and form The flowers open a few at a time along upright to arching stems from summer until the first fall frosts. Plants typically reach 3–5 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide, with a basal clump of narrow green leaves. The species is native to prairies, pinelands and pond margins in Louisiana and Texas. ## Siting and care Plant in full sun and sandy or loamy, well-drained soil; the species tolerates heat and humidity. A taproot helps it withstand dry spells after establishment, while rich soil can encourage excess leaf growth and fewer flowers. Its wiry stems may flop, so place it among sturdy neighboring perennials or use it in a loose, informal border. The flowers attract bees and butterflies. ## Maintenance Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering. Cut flower spikes back in fall and remove dead foliage in spring. [North Carolina State Extension's White Gaura profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/oenothera-lindheimeri/common-name/white-gaura/) supplies species-specific dimensions, flowering, soil and care guidance; [Wisconsin Horticulture's profile](https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/gaura-gaura-lindheimeri/) explains the Gaura-to-Oenothera taxonomic change.