How to Grow Gaura 'Corrie's Gold'
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Gaura 'Corrie's Gold'
Gaura lindheimeri 'Corrie's Gold'
flowerGaura 'Corrie's Gold' is a compact, deciduous perennial shrub prized for its variegated golden foliage and delicate pink-and-white flowers. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves with bright yellow margins and pink veining, creating a showy ornamental display even when not in bloom. It produces airy spikes of butterfly-like flowers throughout the growing season, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and landscape accents.
When should you plant Gaura 'Corrie's Gold' in your zone?
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Example Gaura 'Corrie's Gold' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Gaura 'Corrie's Gold'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Gaura 'Corrie's Gold' blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-9; marginal in zone 5 with winter protection
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging; delicate and slow-growing initially
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light and warmth (65-75°F). Thin seedlings to prevent crowding. Use well-draining seed-starting mix.
Young Plant Establishment
6-8 weeksFoliage develops variegation; plant gradually fills out with branching stems and increasing leaf color
Maintain moderate moisture during this phase. Begin fertilizing monthly with balanced, dilute fertilizer. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness. Transition gradually to outdoor conditions if starting indoors.
Vegetative Growth
Throughout growing seasonVigorous leafy growth with pronounced golden-yellow margins on foliage; plant develops full, mounding form
Water during dry spells. Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive green growth at expense of variegation. Prune lightly if needed to maintain shape. The variegation is most vibrant in full sun.
Flowering
June-October (or until frost)Delicate pale pink or white flowers with darker pink markings appear on thin, airy spikes above foliage
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Reduce fertilizer frequency. Continue moderate watering. Flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Dormancy/Winter
November-MarchPlant dies back in colder zones or goes semi-dormant; foliage may brown or decline in appearance
Reduce watering significantly. In zones 5-6, apply 2-3 inches of mulch in late fall for protection. Cut back dead stems in early spring. In warmer zones, may retain some foliage and continue flowering.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to increase humidity; use insecticidal soap or miticide if severe. Improve air circulation.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering. Remove affected plants and improve soil drainage before replanting.
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Improve air circulation. Apply fungicide or sulfur dust if needed. Avoid overhead watering.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Uses
Border & Container Accent
OrnamentalThe vibrant golden-variegated foliage and delicate flowers make this an excellent specimen plant for flower borders, mixed containers, and landscape focal points. Its airy growth habit creates textural interest and doesn't overwhelm nearby plantings. [source]
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeGaura flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, making this plant valuable for supporting pollinator populations in gardens and native plant landscapes. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangement
HouseholdThe delicate, airy flower spikes and attractive variegated foliage make beautiful, long-lasting additions to fresh flower arrangements and cottage-style bouquets. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
OrnamentalOnce established, this plant requires minimal supplemental water, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, low-maintenance gardens, and water-conserving landscape designs. [source]
Seasonal Color
OrnamentalThe foliage provides year-round visual interest with its golden variegation in spring and summer, and warm bronze or russet tones developing in fall and winter in cooler climates. [source]
Harvest Tips
Gaura is grown primarily for ornamental foliage and flowers rather than harvest. Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly (every 1-2 weeks during bloom season) to promote continuous flowering and maintain plant vigor. Cut flower stems can be used in fresh arrangements. In late fall or early spring, cut back all dead or damaged stems to the base to rejuvenate the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Gaura lindheimeri is native to Texas and Louisiana and was named after European explorer and plant collector Ferdinand Lindheimer, who explored Texas in the 19th century.
- 🌱 'Corrie's Gold' is a variegated cultivar that originated as a sport (spontaneous mutation) of the species, making it a unique and relatively new introduction to ornamental horticulture.
- 🌱 The name 'Gaura' comes from the Greek word 'gauros,' meaning 'superb' or 'proud,' reflecting the plant's elegant, upright flowering display.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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