Biennial Beeblossom
Oenothera gaura
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Biennial Beeblossom (Oenothera gaura) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Deer
Resistant (per Prairie Moon Nursery)
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Gaura produces delicate white or pink butterfly-like flowers on tall, graceful stems from June through September. This drought-tolerant perennial forms an airy, upright clump that sways gently in the breeze and requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Biennial Beeblossom is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Can self-seed prolifically if not deadheaded
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and night-flying moths throughout the growing season. The seeds also attract small birds in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Biennial Beeblossom need?
- Biennial Beeblossom grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Biennial Beeblossom bloom?
- Biennial Beeblossom blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Biennial Beeblossom native?
- Biennial Beeblossom (Oenothera gaura) is native to CT, DE, IA, IL and 16 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Biennial Beeblossom attract?
- Biennial Beeblossom draws bees, butterflies, and moths.
- Is Biennial Beeblossom HOA-friendly?
- Biennial Beeblossom is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Biennial Beeblossom? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz