About

An annual wildflower, with upright, branching stems to around 60cm high, and lance-shaped, grey-green leaves clasping the stems. Spreading clusters of small pink flowers, with notched petals and darker pink veins, are produced in spring and early summer.

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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationThrives in a range of soils and positions, often found on distubed soils and field margins. Self seeds freely and has potential to become a nuisance if not managed
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to cutworms
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free but may be susceptible to sooty mould