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
Buy this plant
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 GB / Ireland
- 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
- Wildlife gardens
- 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
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.