Airy wands of white, pink-flushed flowers dance on slender stems like a cloud of butterflies all season. Heat- and drought-tolerant, weaving beautifully through other plantings.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 80 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Whirling Butterflies
Gaura lindheimeri 'Whirling Butterflies' is a fast-growing perennial in the Onagraceae family. It reaches around 80 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White and pink flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Whirling Butterflies
Whirling Butterflies 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.
Soil & planting
Whirling Butterflies does best in free-draining and sandy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Whirling Butterflies 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 Whirling Butterflies after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Whirling Butterflies in the garden
Whirling Butterflies earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, attracting butterflies, cut flowers for the vase and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Whirling Butterflies 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.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Whirling Butterflies
Plant Sale lists Whirling Butterflies as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.