Airy wands of white-to-pink flowers dance on wiry stems like a cloud of butterflies for months on end. Drought-proof and self-cleaning, it brings movement to any sunny border.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Butterfly Bush
Gaura lindheimeri is a fast-growing perennial in the Onagraceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous foliage. White and pink flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Butterfly Bush
Butterfly Bush suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice, tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is deer-resistant.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Butterfly Bush provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Butterfly Bush is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Butterfly Bush after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Butterfly Bush in the garden
Butterfly Bush earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, attracting butterflies, a feature or specimen planting and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Butterfly Bush with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Butterfly Bush
Plant Sale lists Butterfly Bush as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.