About

A dense, cushion-forming evergreen perennial with grey-green leaves and small star-shaped flowers in summer. Ideal for the alpine house.

About the genus

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

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toCaucasus

Care notes

CultivationGrow in light, preferably alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet. Can be grown in pots
PruningNo pruning required, except dead heading
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in late winter. Take root cuttings in late autumn or winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rots