Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata)

Baby's Breath

Gypsophila paniculata

Delicate cloud-like blooms soften garden borders, a staple of floral arrangements. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Baby's Breath.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun exposure is required for abundant flowering; tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms
💧
Watering Allow top 5–7 cm of soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -30°C; thrives in cool to temperate climates; avoid prolonged temperatures above 32°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear to lanceolate gray-green leaves, 2–8 cm long, arranged oppositely along stems
  • Flower: Tiny white or pale pink star-shaped blooms in dense, airy panicles
  • Stem: Slender, branching green stems with a waxy coating to retain moisture
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering during periods of heavy rain

Fertilization

Apply balanced diluted feed once every 4 weeks. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bloom production rather than excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush baked eggshells to remove moisture, then sprinkle lightly on the soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent fungal growth
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering into late summer
  • Cut back stems to 10 cm above soil level after first frost to prepare for winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded stems in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity, innocence, and everlasting love in Western floral design; commonly used in wedding bouquets

Usage: Cut flower arrangements, dried flower crafts, garden border filler, rock garden plant