About
Gypsophila paniculata, baby's breath, is a tap-rooted herbaceous perennial to 1.2 m forming a billowing mound of slender, branching stems with narrow, grey-green leaves and masses of tiny, white, star-shaped flowers from midsummer to early autumn. An essential cut flower and classic border perennial for a sunny, well-drained position.
About the genus
Gypsophila are annuals and perennials with narrow, often grey-green leaves and large, airy, branching panicles of tiny, white or pink flowers over a long summer season. Classic cut flowers and ornamental border plants for sunny, well-drained positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, N Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in light preferably alkaline, sharply drained soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet
PruningCut back in autumn when the foliage has died down. Dead head regulary to encourage second flush of flowers
PropagationPropagate by root cuttings in autumn-winter
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem rots