How to Grow Gaura

Gaura are annual or perennial sub-shrubs, native to North America, with delicate and modest sized leaves that form compact, bushy foliage and small star-shaped blooms that are displayed in loose panicles throughout summer and autumn. Gaura are best suited to flower beds and borders within cottage and informal garden settings. These plants will grow to an approximate height and spread of 60cm (24”).

Gaura are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of sand, loam and chalk within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. It is recommended to amend the soil with a mixture of grit or compost as this will enrich the planting area. Dig a hole that will accommodate the depth and width of the root ball and space companion plants at least 30cm (12”) apart to ensure the root systems have sufficient space to expand and grow. Gaura are best positioned in a sheltered area of full sun.

During active growth, it is recommended that you water your plants regularly, especially during periods of drought. Gaura dislike being transplanted so it is crucial that they are planted in an appropriate site from the offset to prevent damage or failure of growth.

It is possible to propagate Gaura by seed sown in pots from spring to early summer or by basal cuttings or softwood cuttings in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.