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Biennial Beeblossom

Oenothera gaura

Last reviewed: July 2026

Biennial Beeblossom (Oenothera gaura)
Photo: Jennifer Anderson. United States, IA, Scott Co., Davenport, Nahant Marsh. 2001. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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)

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 the USDA PLANTS Database 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 the USDA PLANTS Database 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