White gaura
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iGaura lindheimeri | ||||||||||||||
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Gaura lindheimeri Engelm. & Gray |
The white gaura (Gaura lindheimeri) is a flowering plant that grows in Louisiana, Texas, and Mexico. While some varieties are used by gardeners, others are considered roadside weeds in the southeastern part of the United States. It may be known by other common names, such as Lindheimer's beeblossom, whirling butterflies, and apple-blossom grass.
Growing in clumps, the white gaura can reach heights of between 2 and 4 feet. With a thin stem and spoon shaped leaves, it produces flowers from the beginning of spring until the first frost. The petals are white at dawn only to turn to pink before falling off at dusk. There are varieties which are always pink, as well. The blossoms have long, hairlike stamens. The plant grows best in full sun and can survive lengthy periods of drought.