Oenothera lindheimeri 'White Dove' (G)

Synonyms

Gaura lindheimeri 'White Dove'

Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A bushy, compact, upright perennial with narrow sword-shaped leaves that have green-lime variegation. In summer and autumn it bears an abundance of white flowers emerging from pink-tinged buds. These are held on slender, wand-like stems, above the foliage.

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Onagraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming, Bushy
Genus
Oenothera can be annuals, biennials or perennials, upright or spreading in habit, with simple or lobed leaves and bowl-shaped, white, yellow or pink flowers over a long period in summer
Name Status
Unresolved
Horticultural Group
This genus has changed from Gaura to Oenothera

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Drought and partial shade are tolerated.

Propagation

Propagate from seed sown in spring and early summer. Increase by division, softwood cuttings and basal softwood cuttings in spring, or semi-ripe heel cuttings in summer.

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

If flowering diminishes, trim back by half during the growing season to encourage a fresh flush of flowers. Cut back hard in spring before growth begins.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free