Small-flowered Gaura
Oenothera curtiflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, IA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Small evening primrose produces delicate yellow flowers that open in the evening from June through September. This compact native wildflower forms neat clumps and thrives in sunny, dry locations with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small-flowered Gaura takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Has a wild, weedy appearance that most HOAs would reject
- Can spread aggressively and look unkempt
- Flowers open at night when neighbors are less likely to appreciate blooms
Wildlife value
Evening-blooming flowers attract night-flying moths and other nocturnal pollinators, while daytime visitors include native bees and butterflies.
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.
Does Small-flowered Gaura fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.