Plant profile
Botanical name: Gaura lindheimeri
German name: Prachtkerze
Family: Onagraceae (evening primrose family)
Flowering time: July to October
Flowers: White, pink, lilac
Foliage: Deciduous
Growth habit: Ornamental perennial, up to 100cm high
Origin: Southern North America
Details of the Gaura lindheimeri
Gaura lindheimeri is a deciduous, ever-flowering ornamental perennial native to southern North America. Under optimal conditions, it can flower from June until the first frost. This is one of the reasons why this easy-to-care for plant is so popular in garden design. The elliptically shaped leaves that grow on the delicate flower stems are reminiscent of small butterflies.
Due to its growth habit, it can fill almost any gap in the border. Its special feature is that the flowering of each individual butterfly lasts exactly one day. Nevertheless, its beauty does not fade in flight. It keeps producing new enchanting flowers that attract nectar-seeking butterflies and bees. The two to three centimeter small individual flowers are usually white, pink or lilac and create little eye-catchers in the flower bed. The ornamental perennial often changes color during the course of the day. While it tends to bloom white in the morning, it appears in bright pink towards evening.
The magnificent candle prefers sunny locations that are protected from strong winds. Otherwise there is a risk that the flower stems will bend over. At the same time, it thrives best in well-drained and dry soil. If the soil is heavy and has a high water and nutrient content, it can be loosened up by adding a little sand and gravel. In a suitable location, Gaura lindheimeri will self-seed, so there is no need to divide it. If the perennial is cut back after flowering, it will develop so-called overwintering buds. Owners can then look forward to an impressive profusion of flowers next summer.
Use of the magnificent candle in the design
Whether as a single plant or in groups - Gaura lindheimeri cuts a fine figure in every respect. Even very structured and linear gardens are embellished and loosened up by it. Our plant of the month looks particularly good in rose beds and in combination with grasses. It also fits perfectly in sunny borders and gravel beds. Together with lavender, the butterfly flowers provide variety and contrast with the long purple panicles. The magnificent candle can also be admired in a planter on the patio. The Gaura lindheimeri proves once again that an easy-care plant can also be a versatile eye-catcher.
