Gaura ‘The Bride’ – Whimsical Blooms for Effortless Color
Gaura ‘The Bride’ (lindheimeri) is a delicate, cloud-like perennial known for its fluttering white blooms that resemble dancing butterflies. Its airy stems and soft, graceful habit bring motion and lightness to any garden space. Gaura thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat, drought, and poor conditions better than many flowering perennials. Because it blooms for months—from late spring through early fall—it offers long-lasting color with very little maintenance.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for cottage gardens, wildflower-style plantings, and naturalized borders
Ideal for pollinator gardens thanks to its nectar-rich blooms
Works beautifully as a filler plant, adding softness and movement
Perfect for sunny beds, meadows, or xeriscape-style designs
Pairs well with coneflowers, salvias, and ornamental grasses
Adds height without heaviness, complementing both bold and subtle color schemes
Planting Tips
Choose a full-sun site for best flowering and compact growth
Plant in well-drained soil; sandy or gravelly soil is ideal
Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow airy stems to sway naturally
Water regularly during establishment, then reduce as plants mature
Avoid heavy fertilization, which can cause weak, floppy stems
Trim lightly in midsummer to maintain shape and prolong blooming
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Gaura Lindheimeri |
| Variety Name: | The Bride |
| Height: | 16″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring or Fall |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Continuous |
| Bloom Duration: | 2 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Prefers sandy, loamy, well-draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Low to average |
Troubleshooting - Gaura
Flopping stems: Often from rich soil or overwatering; improve drainage and reduce feeding
Sparse blooms: Usually caused by too much shade; move to a sunnier location
Yellowing leaves: Can result from waterlogged soil; ensure proper drainage
Winter dieback: Common in cold climates; cut back in spring once new growth appears
Weak growth: Check for overcrowding and ensure plants have enough airflow
FAQ - Gaura
Q: Is Gaura deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Gaura is generally deer-resistant due to its tough, wiry stems.
Q: How long does it bloom?
A: It often blooms from late spring all the way into early fall.
Q: Does Gaura attract pollinators?
A: Yes, bees and butterflies love the delicate, nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How tall does Gaura ‘The Bride’ grow?
A: It typically reaches 24–36 inches tall with airy, upright stems.