Gypsophila paniculata 'Perfekta'
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Common Name: baby's breath
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Zone: 3 to 9
Height: 2.5 to 3 feet
Spread: 2.5 to 3 feet
Bloom Time: June
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Description: White (double)
Sun: Full sun
Water: Dry
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Tolerates: Dry Soil, Drought
Uses: Cut Flower, Dried Flower

Culture

Best grown in dry, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers alkaline soils (pH 7.0 to 7.5). Add lime to acidic soils. May not survive winter in wet, poorly drained soils. Likes to be left undisturbed once established. Cut back after flowering to promote rebloom.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Baby's breath is a mainstay filler plant of the floral industry. This cultivar is a diffusely branched, mound-forming plant that typically grows to 36" tall and features numerous, long-lasting, double white flowers (1/2" wide) in open, airy panicles on wiry, jointed stems in summer. Very similar to the popular Gypsophilia paniculata 'Bristol Fairy' except the flowers of 'Perfekta' are twice as large. Lance-shaped foliage is somewhat sparse. Sprays of baby's breath are frequently used as filler in bouquets and floral arrangements.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to botrytis and aster yellows. May need staking or other support.

Garden Uses

Provides excellent contrast and texture to the perennial border. May be used as summer filler to cover areas once occupied by early spring wildflowers, bulbs or other plants which disappear into dormancy by early summer.

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