Wand flower (Gaura lindheimeri) GAR-ah lind-HY-mer-eye Genus:  Gaura

This North American wildflower is a bushy, clump-forming, vase-shaped perennial with lance-shaped or spoon-shaped, toothed leaves on slender, wand-like stems. Leaves may be occasionally spotted with maroon. Loose panicles of 4-petaled white flowers open only a few at a time and fade slowly to pink, blooming from late spring to early autumn.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Great texture and graceful loose form, perfect for the border.

Care: 

Well-drained, fertile, moist soil is preferable, but will tolerate drought and partial shade. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming period. Close planting or support from neighboring perennials is beneficial. May be cut back by half in late spring to control size.

Propagation: 

Divide in spring. Sow seed from spring to early summer.

Problems: 

Rust, Cercospora and Septoria leaf spots, sometimes downy and powdery mildews. Root rot may occur in heavy, poorly drained soils.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Native, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Fall, Late Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color Pink, White Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Suitable as Annual Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials