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Pot Size Guide

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Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’
(Bee Blossom)

£20.00

£20.00

Out of stock

Great for wildlife
May - September
100cm x 50cm
Partial Shade, Sun
Easy Care
Fully Hardy

Gaura ‘Whirling Butterflies’ are pretty perennials with white flowers that look great in informal or cottage garden plantings. Their open habit lets the small star-shaped flowers dance in the breeze, flowering from May until September. Our horticulture team recommends planting them in mixed perennial beds for a prairie garden feel. Holding the RHS Perfect for Pollinators award, they pair nicely with Echinacea and Rudbeckia on our nursery.

Flowering Calendar

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Additional information

Plant Type
Flower Colour
Flowering Period
Fully Grown Size
Foliage
Garden Position
Light Level
Hardiness
RHS Garden Merit Award
RHS Plants For Pollinators
Pot Size
Warning
30 Day Returns

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Lifetime Guarantee

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Description

Gaura 'Whirling Butterflies' is a beloved perennial on our nursery, celebrated for its ethereal beauty. This variety is delightful with its abundance of dainty, star-shaped flowers that resemble fluttering white butterflies. Each flower is borne on slender, wiry stems that sway gracefully in the slightest breeze. Flowering from late Spring to early Autumn, 'Whirling Butterflies' offers a long-lasting display of blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity in the garden. For its contribution to supporting pollinators in decline Gaura 'Whirling Butterflies' has been awarded the RHS Plants for Pollinators award. Its airy and feathery appearance adds a sense of movement and lightness to garden landscapes, making it a perfect choice for prairie-style gardens or mixed perennial borders. Our nursery values 'Whirling Butterflies' for its low-maintenance nature and its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It's also drought tolerant once established, making it suitable for sustainable garden practices. This Gaura is ideal for adding a touch of whimsy and elegance to cottage gardens, urban landscapes, or any garden seeking a plant that offers both beauty and ecological benefits.

Planting Conditions

For Gaura, we recommend planting in well-drained soil with good sunlight access. Choose a sunny spot in your garden, as Gaura thrives in full sun. Prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, placing the plant at the same level as it was in the pot, and fill in with soil. Space plants about 60 cm apart to allow for proper air circulation. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish its roots.

Watering & Feeding

We advise watering Gaura regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system. During dry periods, ensure it receives about 2.5 cm of water per week. Once established, Gaura is quite drought-tolerant and can withstand less frequent watering. Fertilise in early Spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. Applying a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.

General Care

Gaura, also known as wandflower or butterfly flower, is relatively low-maintenance. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Prune Gaura in early Spring to remove dead or damaged growth and encourage new growth. It generally has good disease resistance but may occasionally be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Pests like aphids may sometimes appear but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular deadheading of spent flowers promotes continuous blooming throughout the growing season.