Overview
Gypsophila aretioides is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the genus Gypsophila, part of the Caryophyllaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Gypsophila aretioides grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock garden, dry stone wall, scree bed, cut flower, gravel garden, patio and container plants and wildlife garden.
About
Gypsophila aretioides, known as alpine baby's breath, is a matforming herbaceous perennial in the Caryophyllaceae family. It features semi-evergreen, slender grey-green foliage typical of the Gypsophila genus, which is known for its clusters of petite blooms. This cultivar thrives in full sun and is hardy to UK zone H5, making it suitable for a variety of garden aspects and exposures. It prefers well-drained alkaline to neutral soils such as chalk, loam, or sand, and is ideal for rock gardens, dry stone walls, scree beds, and containers. It can be propagated by seed and is best planted after the last frost.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gypsophila
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Gypsophila aretioides size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Matforming
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Rock garden, Dry stone wall, Scree bed, Cut flower, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gypsophila aretioides
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to a stem rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gypsophila aretioides?
Gypsophila aretioides prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Gypsophila aretioides need?
Gypsophila aretioides is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Gypsophila aretioides hardy in the UK?
Gypsophila aretioides has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Gypsophila aretioides?
Seed.
More in the Gypsophila genus
- Gypsophila 'Rosenschleier'Baby's-Breath
- Gypsophila altissima
- Gypsophila repens 'Fratensis'
- Gypsophila repens 'Rosa Schönheit'
- Gypsophila repens 'Rosea'creeping baby's breath 'Rosea'
- Gypsophila repens 'Silver Carpet' (v)
- Gypsophila 'White Flare' (Festival Series)
- Gypsophila Happy Festival ('Danghappy') (Festival Series)