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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Butterfly Bush performs well with relatively little water once established. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Butterfly Bush after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same happy on low water and warm-temperate climate as Butterfly Bush. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Buying Butterfly Bush
Plant Sale lists Butterfly Bush as potted plants. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
