GYPSOPHILA paniculata (Baby's Breath, Perennial)

GYPSOPHILA paniculata (Baby's Breath, Perennial) is a perennial flowering plant that is widely known for its delicate, airy appearance and its use as a popular cut flower in floral arrangements.

Baby's Breath is a clump-forming perennial that typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) and spreads about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) wide. It has slender stems with narrow, gray-green leaves. The plant produces branching panicles of tiny, white or pink flowers with five petals. The flowers are small and numerous, giving the plant a cloud-like appearance.

The flowers of Gypsophila paniculata are the main attraction. They are small, typically around 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) in diameter, and have a star-like shape with five petals. The flowers are usually white, but there are also cultivars available with pink or light pink flowers. The numerous flowers form dense, billowy clusters that create a delicate and ethereal effect.

Baby's Breath typically blooms in mid to late summer, although the exact timing can vary depending on the growing conditions and climate. The flowering period can last for several weeks, providing an extended display of blooms. While the flowers of Baby's Breath are not particularly known for attracting pollinators, they can still be visited by bees and butterflies. Additionally, the airy structure of the plant provides shelter for small beneficial insects in the garden.

Gypsophila paniculata thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers soil that is not overly fertile and can tolerate various soil types, including sandy or rocky soils. Baby's Breath is generally drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry spells, especially in hot climates. It is relatively hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures.

Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata) is a classic perennial plant that adds a touch of elegance and softness to gardens, flower borders, and floral arrangements. Its delicate flowers and airy structure make it a popular choice for wedding bouquets, flower crowns, and other floral designs. In the garden, it can complement a wide range of other plants and add a graceful, romantic touch to the landscape.