Oenothera lindheimeri Papillon ('Nugaupapil'PBR) (G)

RHS Plant Profile
white gaura [Papillon]

Synonyms

Oenothera lindheimeri 'Nugaupapil'PBR
Gaura lindheimeri 'Nugaupapil'
Gaura 'Papillon'
Gaura lindheimeri Papillon

Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A compact herbaceous perennial to about 40cm, producing loose, upright spikes of delicate white flowers, over a long period from late spring to early autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

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
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
Trade
Horticultural Group
This genus has changed from Gaura to Oenothera

How to Grow

Cultivation

Best grown in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, but dry soils and partial shade tolerated

Propagation

Propagate by division, basal cuttings or softwood cuttings in spring or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Prairie planting
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Can produce autumn tints in cold weather so delay cutting back until spring

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free