Gypsophila elegans (Annual Baby’s Breath)

Gypsophila elegans, commonly known as Annual Baby’s Breath or Showy Baby’s Breath, is an annual plant native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is a popular choice for ornamental gardens and cut flower arrangements, valued for its delicate, airy appearance.

Growth habit: Gypsophila elegans has a bushy, branching growth habit, reaching a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) and a spread of 18-24 inches (45-60 cm).

Size: The plant is relatively small and compact compared to some other Gypsophila species, making it suitable for garden borders, containers, and small spaces.

Flowers: Gypsophila elegans produces an abundance of small, star-shaped, white or carmine-pink flowers that form airy, cloud-like clusters.

Blooming season: The blooming season for Gypsophila elegans typically occurs from late spring to early summer, lasting several weeks.

Hardiness: As an annual plant, Gypsophila elegans is not frost-tolerant and will complete its life cycle within one growing season.

Uses: This plant is commonly used in flower arrangements, wedding bouquets, and as a filler in garden beds and borders. Its airy appearance adds a soft, romantic touch to the landscape.

Pollinators: Gypsophila elegans attracts various pollinators, including bees and butterflies drawn to its nectar-rich flowers.

Toxicity: Gypsophila elegans is considered non-toxic to humans and pets, but it is always advisable to prevent ingestion of any plant material.

Deer and rabbit resistance: Deer and rabbits may occasionally feed on Gypsophila elegans, but the plant is not a preferred food source for these animals.

Drought tolerance: Gypsophila elegans is moderately drought-tolerant once established, requiring consistent moisture during its growing season but able to tolerate short periods of drought.

By incorporating Gypsophila elegans into your garden or floral designs, you can enjoy the delicate beauty and romantic charm this plant offers.

Growing and Care Tips

To successfully grow Gypsophila elegans in your garden, follow these tips to provide the best conditions for this beautiful annual:

Sunlight: Plant Gypsophila elegans in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Although it can tolerate some light shade, full sun exposure encourages more abundant blooms.

Soil: Gypsophila elegans prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid heavy clay soils or locations where water tends to pool, as poor drainage can lead to root rot.

Sowing seeds: Sow Gypsophila elegans seeds directly into the garden in early spring after the risk of frost has passed, or start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Cover seeds lightly with soil, as they need some light to germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist until germination, which usually occurs within 10-14 days.

Spacing: Space plants approximately 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart to allow for proper air circulation and to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease issues.

Watering: Water Gypsophila elegans regularly during the growing season, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering and root rot.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting or shortly after germination to support healthy growth and abundant blooming.

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season.

Pests and diseases: Monitor plants for common pests, such as aphids, slugs, and snails, and diseases like stem rot. 

By following these growing tips, you can enjoy the delicate, cloud-like blooms of Gypsophila elegans in your garden or flower arrangements.

Invasive: Annual Baby’s Breath can be invasive in certain regions, particularly in North America

Find where Gypsophila elegans ( Annual Baby’s Breath) is invasive in the United States..

Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.

By providing proper care and suitable growing conditions, Gypsophila ‘Rosenschleier’ can be a beautiful and delicate addition to your garden or floral arrangements.