Baby's breath - Gypsophila paniculata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Baby's breath

Also known as: Common gypsophila

Baby's breath is commonly used by florists as a filler for bouquets, but it also works well as a backdrop for larger, more structured blooms like roses. This drought- and salt-tolerant perennial attracts butterflies. It has grown invasive in North America, posing a threat to native grasslands and open ecosystems.

Scientific classification

Species

Baby's breath (Gypsophila paniculata)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

1 mm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

White, Pink

Flower Color

Green, Blue, White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Baby's breath

Distribution of Baby's breath

Distribution Map

Baby's breath is native to parts of Eastern Europe and Asia, flourishing across a broad region extending from the Mediterranean Basin to Central Asia. This plant has been introduced to several continents, notably finding its way into Europe and parts of Asia. Baby's breath is cultivated in various places, likely due to its appeal in ornamental gardening. While baby's breath is sometimes thought to be non-native in areas beyond its indigenous range, it may be considered invasive in certain regions, like parts of South America and Oceania, where its presence may have an impact on local ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry sandy and stony places, steppe

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Baby's breath is renowned for its numerous fluffy, discretely fragrant white flowers; when in bloom, the entire plant looks like a white cloud when viewed from a distance. Ideal for perennial borders and popular as a cut flower, baby's breath is famously drought resistant and salt tolerant. As for wildlife, it attracts pollinating insects, but not deer.

Symbolism

Purity, innocence and love

Interesting Facts

A favorite of florists and a typical plant found in flower arrangements, baby's breath makes a great filler. Its long-lasting blossoms outlast most other flowers. It is an excellent candidate for dried flowers. Simply hang the blossom upside down for a few days until dry. But be careful, it's reported to be mildly toxic to dogs and cat since the saponin and gyposenin cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.

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Toxicity

Baby's breath exhibits mild toxicity to cats and dogs. In high amounts, consumption of any part of baby's breath can cause poisoning and symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. Pet owners should monitor their animals for signs of distress and seek immediate veterinary care if poisoning is suspected to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

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Quickly Identify Baby's breath

Small, delicate white to pale pink flowers in cloud-like clusters

Slender, smooth stem with branching pattern, reaching 2-4 feet (60-120 cm)

Narrow, light green leaves contributing to airy texture

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Care Guide for Baby's breath

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Baby's breath thrives in well-drained soil and moderate humidity, tolerating occasional drought but needing weekly watering for vitality. Native to Eurasia, it adapts to temperate climates with balanced rainfall. As an herbaceous perennial, baby's breath enters dormancy in colder months, requiring less water then.

Fertilize: Baby's breath thrives with balanced fertilizer during growth, switching to high phosphorus for blooming. Fertilize bi-weekly in spring/summer, monthly in cooler months, and ensure soil is watered prior to application to avoid root shock and burn. Adjust feeding for vegetative and flowering stages.

Pruning: Baby's breath has delicate flowers and benefits from pruning to enhance shape and flower production. Key techniques include deadheading and cutting back stems by one-third in spring. Proper pruning encourages robust growth, controls size, and prevents legginess, promoting a healthy appearance.

Propagation: Baby's breath propagation is best done by sowing in Spring for optimal growth. Look for healthy green shoots as signs of successful germination. Effective propagation requires proper soil preparation and moisture management.

Repotting: Repot baby's breath every 2-3 years in spring, using a pot slightly larger than the last. Post-repotting, provide ample sunlight and moderate watering to prevent root rot, ensuring the plant maintains its delicate, cloud-like blooms.

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Images of Baby's breath

Distribution of Baby's breath

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Baby's breath

Care Guide for Baby's breath

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