Gaura

[caroline7758]

I got some seeds from the RHS seed list, didn't specify variety. They have germinated well and are growing on but some have developed purple patches on the leaves. Is this some kind of rust do you think?

[caroline7758]

[Georgie]

Some species have variegated leaves.  I suggest you Google 'variegated Gaura' and see if you can identify your plant first.   :)

G x

[caroline7758]

Thanks, Georgie, will do.

[Monika]

I grow Gaura and I find they do develop these small brownish/purply 'spots' on the leaves but they don't do them any harm and they are definitely not rust.

I lost my clump last year and that had them every year and, this year, I have grown some from seed and, as you say, they have now started to get these 'spots'.

[caroline7758]

That's ressuring, Monika, thanks. Any other tips for looking after them?

[froglets]

Just to reinforce what Monika posted, I get the brown spots on leave too, but theplants are healthy.  I struggle to getthem through winters some years, so worth taking cuttings to overwinter if you'r anywhere North of Watford!

[Monika]

I think it was the sharp frosts we had a few times over the winter that did for mine and I thought, this time,  I'll put them in different places in the garden, hoping that at least one spot might give them the shelter they need.

I have to say that once you get a good clump you don't tend to notice the marks on the leaves much as the flowers are so showy above them.

We went over to our son's on Sunday and his wife has just bought one with bright red leaves - so I shall be looking out to buy one of those myself.