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Herbaceous Perennial

Gypsophila pacifica
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

baby's breath

A clump-forming herbaceous perennial with blue-green leaves and clouds of white-pink small starry flowers throughout the summer

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Pink Green Blue
Summer White Pink Green Blue
Autumn Blue Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Gypsophila can be annuals or perennials, sometimes evergreen, with narrow, greyish leaves and large sprays of small flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E Siberia Manchuria

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in light, preferably alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed in late winter. Take root cuttings in late autumn or winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • 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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