According to Carr et al., readily crossbreeds with Gaura longiflora (now called Oenothera filiformis), and showed it is a direct derivative from G. longiflora, but the specialized feature of permanent translocation heterozygosity set Oenothera gaura apart as a unique genetic system amongst the genus.

[3][5] Individuals of this species are tall and weedy, with white to light pink flowers during blooming season, and leaves that turn a red color when mature.

The flimsy makeup of the plant allows it to sway in the wind, which makes seed dispersal easier.

A few hair-covered stems exit from the top of the plant where the flowers grow, which is the easiest way to tell that the species is the biennial beeblossom.

It prefers sunny, dry areas, but has the capability of adapting to a wide range of habitats because of its ability to grow deep roots.