Plant of the Month February 2026

Описание: Kidneywood is also known as White or Butterfly Gaura since the flowers resemble small butterflies. This is one of the showiest members of the Gaura species. The 1“ white flowers open early in the morning, starting white and eventually turning pink. They appear from late Spring to Fall. If the plants are cut back in mid-summer, when flowering declines, it will produce a fresh batch of flowers in the fall. Butterflies and bees enjoy the nectar.

The loose, open growing plants are 2’ – 4’ tall and can be 3’ wide. The leaves are dark green in the summer and turn red or gold in the fall. White Gaura occurs naturally in the prairies and pinelands of the eastern part of the state. It prefers full sun but will tolerate part shade. It has a deep taproot, is tolerant of drought and requires well drained soil. It is moderately deer resistant but may require some protection when first set out.

Plants are commercially available, and some named cultivars with pink flowers have been developed. It is easy to grow from seed, and plants will self sow, possibly becoming invasive.

Kidneywood is a NPSOT Lindheimer Chapter NICE! 2026 Spring Native Plant selection