Overview
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' is a perennial in the genus Gypsophila, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include cut flower, borders and cottage gardens. It is native to Central and Eastern Europe.
About
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' is a perennial reaching about 1.2 m, grown for extended summer flowering and a mild, sweet fragrance. It flowers June to September. Plant it in full sun in sandy, loamy or clay soils that are well-drained or moist but well-drained. It is commonly used as a cut flower, in borders and in cottage gardens.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gypsophila paniculata
About the genus
Gypsophila is a genus of flowering plants in the carnation family, Caryophyllaceae. They are native to Eurasia, Africa, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. Turkey has a particularly high diversity of Gypsophila taxa, with about 35 endemic species.
Wikipedia contributors, "Gypsophila", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gypsophila
In the garden
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' is a perennial from Central and Eastern Europe that typically reaches around 1.2 m. It carries a mild, sweet scent and flowers through the summer months, providing long-season interest from June to September. Give it a sunny position and soils that range from sandy to loamy or clay, provided they are well-drained; it will also tolerate sites described as moist but well-drained. The plant is rated H7 in the UK (fully hardy) and corresponds to USDA zones 4–10, so it tolerates winter conditions across the British Isles when sited properly. Use Bristol Fairy in mixed borders, cottage-style plantings or as a producer of cut stems for arrangements. When grown in full sun on free-draining soil it produces the most usable stems for floristry, and the mild sweet fragrance is noticeable when stems are gathered for summer bouquets.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gypsophila
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 1.2 m
- Suggested uses
- Cut flower, Borders, Cottage gardens
- Native to
- Central and Eastern Europe
- Fragrance
- Mild, sweet
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; drought tolerant once established
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy'?
Prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging; drought tolerant once established.
Where is the best place to plant Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy'?
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' need?
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
How big does Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' grow?
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' reaches a height of 1.2 m.
Is Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' hardy in the UK?
Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Gypsophila paniculata 'Bristol Fairy'?
Seed, Division.
More in the Gypsophila genus
- Gypsophila 'Rosenschleier'Baby's-Breath
- Gypsophila Super Time ('Esm Cold')Baby's-Breath
- Gypsophila fastigiata 'Silverstar'Fastigiate Gypsophila
- Gypsophila pacifica
