Showy baby's-breath - Gypsophila elegans (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Showy baby's-breath

Also known as: Maidens breath

Showy baby's-breath (*Gypsophila elegans*) is a short-lived annual flower. This plant's blossoms are bigger than the "Baby's Breath" that florists use in arrangements, and it's native to Eurasia. This species is very popular in cut flower arrangements and is frequently paired with roses.

Scientific classification

Species

Showy baby's-breath (Gypsophila elegans)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

30 cm to 45 cm

Plant Height

45 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver, White, Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Showy baby's-breath

Distribution of Showy baby's-breath

Distribution Map

Showy baby's-breath is native to parts of Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Western Asia. It has been introduced across a range of regions, including Northern, Central, and Southern Europe; various countries in South America, Central America, and Asia; as well as the northernmost lands of Africa. Notably, showy baby's-breath also thrives under cultivation in environments beyond its natural range, adapting to a diverse array of global climates.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, other open, sandy or rocky, disturbed sites

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Showy baby's-breath is an ideal planting for cottage gardens and cutting gardens. Plant it along borders where the thin stems and bursts of tiny colorful flowers gracefully fill in gaps between planting zones. The flowers are often used in fresh or dried flower arrangements and are a frequent addition to bridal bouquets.

Symbolism

Purity, innocence and love

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Toxicity

Showy baby's-breath can cause minor skin irritation in humans due to saponins in its sap. It might affect those with asthma or allergies through its dry blooms. Showy baby's-breath is mildly toxic to cats and dogs, causing stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea upon ingestion. Handling precautions include wearing gloves and keeping the plant out of reach of pets. Showy baby's-breath.

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Quickly Identify Showy baby's-breath

Delicate, cloud-like clusters of petite white flowers on thin stems (18-24 inches / 45-60 cm tall).

5-petaled white flowers in star-like pattern, each around 0.25 inches (6 mm) wide.

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Care Guide for Showy baby's-breath

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from Eastern Europe, showy baby's-breath prefers well-drained soils and thrives in moderately arid environments. It balances drought tolerance with a need for weekly watering. Typically grown outdoors, showy baby's-breath attracts pollinators and benefits from natural humidity from dew and rainfall.

Fertilize: Showy baby's-breath benefits from balanced fertilization in early spring to support growth and flowering. Monthly high nitrogen feedings during vegetative phases are ideal, reducing to a balanced mix for blooming. Adjust fertilization seasonally, using half-strength solutions to avoid root burn and ensure nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Pruning showy baby's-breath in early to late spring promotes healthy growth and enhances blooming. Remove dead stems, cut back one-third to prevent legginess, and improve air circulation. Trimming post-flowering boosts vigor for a robust display in the next season.

Propagation: Showy baby's-breath is effectively propagated by sowing in Spring, with high success rates indicated by emerging seedlings. For best results, provide adequate spacing and well-draining soil.

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Images of Showy baby's-breath

Distribution of Showy baby's-breath

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Showy baby's-breath

Care Guide for Showy baby's-breath

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