Gypsophila paniculata
baby's breath
A tap-rooted herbaceous perennial with branching stems of blue-green foliage and loaded panicles of small, dainty white flowers
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green Blue | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White | Blue Green | ||
| Autumn | Green Blue | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming, Spreading branched
- Genus
Gypsophila can be annuals or perennials, sometimes evergreen, with narrow, greyish leaves and large sprays of small flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, N Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light preferably alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet
Propagation
Propagate by root cuttings in autumn-winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back in autumn when the foliage has died down. Dead head regulary to encourage second flush of flowers
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to stem rots
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