Gypsophila vaccaria
cow herb
An annual wildflower, with upright, branching stems to around 60cm high, and lance-shaped, grey-green leaves clasping the stems. Spreading clusters of small pink flowers, with notched petals and darker pink veins, are produced in spring and early summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Pink | Green Grey Silver | ||
Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Gypsophila can be annuals or perennials, sometimes evergreen, with narrow, greyish leaves and large sprays of small flowers
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in a range of soils and positions, often found on distubed soils and field margins. Self seeds freely and has potential to become a nuisance if not managed
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to cutworms
Diseases
Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to sooty mould
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