The Gaura (Oenothera lindheimeri) is a perennial with a light, wild-looking appearance, known for its long flowering period and slender stems that move in the wind. Its flowers, white or pink depending on the variety, appear in small spikes and open in stages, creating a very natural effect, like “butterflies” floating above the plant. It is an ideal species for adding height and transparency in the garden, without creating a sense of heavy volume.

It grows quickly and has a somewhat open habit, perfect for beds, borders, Mediterranean-style gardens or ornamental prairie planting. Once established, it is surprisingly drought tolerant and appreciates poor, free-draining soils: the less it is “pampered” (without excessive watering or feeding), the more balanced it tends to be. It also works well in pots, provided there is drainage and enough sun.