The Plant Guide

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Wand flower

Gaura lindheimeri

GAR-ah lind-HY-mer-eye Audio

This North American wildflower is a bushy, clump-forming, vase-shaped perennial with lance-shaped or spoon-shaped toothed leaves on slender, wandlike stems. Leaves may be occasionally spotted with maroon. Loose panicles of four-petaled white flowers open only a few at a time and fade slowly to pink, blooming from late spring to early autumn.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsGreat texture and graceful loose form; perfect for the border

CareWell-drained, fertile, moist soil is preferable, but will tolerate drought and partial shade. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming period. Close planting or support from neighboring perennials is beneficial. May be cut back by half in late spring to control size.

PropagationDivide in spring. Sow seed from spring to early summer.

ProblemsRust, Cercospora and Septoria leaf spots, sometimes downy and powdery mildews. Root rot may occur in heavy, poorly drained soils.

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  • Genus : Gaura
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Uses : Containers
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Characteristics : Self Seeds
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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