Baby’s Breath Flowers – What Other Baby’s Breath Cultivars Are There (2024)

By: Mary H. Dyer, Credentialed Garden Writer

Clouds of billowy baby’s breath flowers (Gypsophila paniculata) provide an airy look to floral arrangements. These profuse summer bloomers can be just as pretty in a border or rock garden. Many gardeners use cultivars of this plant as a backdrop, where the floods of delicate blooms show off brightly colored, lower growing plants.

So what other types of baby’s breath flowers are there? Read on to learn more.

About Gypsophila Plants

Baby’s breath is one of several types of Gypsophila,a genus of plants in the carnation family. Within the genus are several baby’sbreath cultivars, all with long, straight stems and masses of dainty,long-lasting blooms.

Baby’s breath varieties are easy to plant by seed directly in the garden. Once established, baby’s breath flowers are easy to grow, fairly drought-tolerant, and require no special care.

Plant baby’s breath cultivars in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Regular deadheading isn’t absolutely required, but removing spent blooms will prolong the blooming period.

Popular Baby’s Breath Cultivars

Here are a few of the most popular varieties of baby’sbreath:

  • Bristol Fairy: The Bristol Fairy grows 48 inches (1.2 m.) with white flowers. The tiny flowers are ¼ inch in diameter.
  • Perfekta: This white flowering plant grows up to 36 inches (1 m.). Perfekta blooms are slightly larger, measuring about ½ inch in diameter.
  • Festival Star: Festival Star grows 12 to 18 inches (30-46 cm.) and blooms are white. This hardy variety is suitable for growing in USDA zones 3 through 9.
  • Compacta Plena: Compacta Plena is bright white, growing 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm.). Baby’s breath flowers may be edged in pale pink with this variety.
  • Pink Fairy: A dwarf cultivar that blooms later than many other varieties of this flower, Pink Fairy is pale pink and only grows 18 inches (46 cm.) high.
  • Viette’s Dwarf: Viette’s Dwarf has pink flowers and stands 12 to 15 inches (30-38 cm.) tall. This compact baby’s breath plant blooms throughout spring and summer.

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Baby’s Breath Flowers – What Other Baby’s Breath Cultivars Are There (2024)

FAQs

What are the different kinds of baby's breath? ›

Baby's-breath

What is the difference between baby's breath and Gypsophila? ›

Baby's breath is one of several types of Gypsophila, a genus of plants in the carnation family. Within the genus are several baby's breath cultivars, all with long, straight stems and masses of dainty, long-lasting blooms. Baby's breath varieties are easy to plant by seed directly in the garden.

How many varieties of Gypsophila are there? ›

There are about 150 species in the genus.

What type of baby's breath do florists use? ›

The most commonly cultivated species is Gypsophila paniculata, which is most often found at florists. This species has the delicate white flowers we're most familiar with.

What is purple baby's breath called? ›

Gypsophila paniculata (Baby's Breath)
Also known as:Panicled Baby's-breath, Tall Baby's Breath
Origin:Europe, Asia
Status:Invasive - ERADICATE!
Habitat:sun; dry sandy or gravelly soil; roadsides, railroads, waste areas, dunes
Bloom season:July - September
7 more rows

Why is baby's breath a problem? ›

When Baby's breath invades grazing land, it reduces native grasses and forage for grazing animals and wildlife. When it develops seeds and matures, the plant breaks off at the ground and rolls long distances across the landscape with the ability to spread the over 10,000 seeds per plant!

Is Gypso the same as baby's breath? ›

Gypsophila (baby's breath) are annual, hardy perennial or alpine plants that are grown for their sprays of tiny, button-like flowers in summer, in shades of white or pale pink. Gypsophilas are a member of the carnation family, Caryophyllaceae.

Is Baby's Breath outdated? ›

These days, baby's breath is a pretty outdated filler—but that doesn't mean it has no place in wedding décor! Some brides are modernizing this trend by using baby's breath on its own.

What is the best variety of Gypsophila? ›

Gypsophila Xlence – The Best in Gypsophila

This large sized gypsophila has a bright white color and flowers with a high number of petals. The strength of the stems makes Xlence easy to handle and very productive for floral arrangements and bouquets.

Can you get purple Gypsophila? ›

GYPSOPHILA DYED PURPLE is approx. 80cm and wholesaled in Batches of 25 stems. Very popular in wedding floristry and for events, in advertising & for product packaging.

Is there pink Gypsophila? ›

Gypsophila paniculata Pink (Pink Baby's Breath) Bears thousands of white double flowers that create an airy, cloudlike display in the summer border. Plants form a bushy, upright mound and, once established, are drought tolerant. Great for cutting for dried and fresh arrangements.

Is alyssum and baby's breath the same? ›

Aurinia saxatilis is also called alyssum, but don't confuse the two. Though similar in appearance, they're quite different taxonomically. Similarly, while it looks like baby's breath, L. Gypsophila paniculate, they are not related.

What is Unicorn baby's breath? ›

Unicorn Gypsophila is a plant that produces vivid and attractive flowers; the plant is also known as “baby's breath.” They grow up to two and a half feet tall and have as many as 10 branches that produce bunches of flowers. It comes in multiple colors and can be dyed easily.

Is blue baby's breath real? ›

Baby's breath is a delicate and beautiful blossom. Its small blue blooms and light green stems create an airy floral look perfect for any kind of wedding display.

Is baby's Breath a cheap wedding flower? ›

The Good: Baby's breath is an inexpensive and affordable option for bridesmaids' bouquets or centerpieces. It's extremely hardy and has a long lifetime. This flower also offers a light, alluring and sweet look.

How long will a baby's breath bouquet last? ›

How Long Does Baby's Breath Last? Baby's breath is a hardy shrub. It's a common joke among growers that the baby's breath plant is something even the worst flower growers can't kill. Fresh ones will last anywhere from 8-10 days, or more when properly cared for.

How many stems of baby's breath do you need for a centerpiece? ›

Once the pieces from the one stem of baby's breath is bunched together, you can see that a little goes a long way. That one stem could be enough for a mason jar centerpiece. If you want a more full arrangement, you will need 2 stems. For a full bouquet, 5-7 stems.

What does blue baby breath mean? ›

Presenting blue Baby's Breath flowers to them can be the right way to assure them they can trust you. Blue Baby's Breath symbolize loyalty, sincerity, confidence, wisdom, faith, and sincerity.

What colors do babies breathe come in? ›

Baby's breath flowers are very small and delicate. They are most often white, but can be found in pink, purple, and red as well. Baby's breath is one of the most popular filler flowers for bridal bouquets and other arrangements. The small size and light color of the baby's breath complements other, larger flowers well.

What does blue baby's breath symbolize? ›

Baby's Breath comes in a wide array of colors, aside from dyed flowers. White Baby's Breath means unity and spirituality while blue means honesty and respect. Orange flowers symbolize joy and optimism while red ones symbolize love and romance.

Why is baby's breath toxic? ›

Baby's Breath and other Gypsophila species plants contain gyposenin, a saponin, which may cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract following ingestion. Common signs to watch for: Vomiting. Anorexia.

What part of baby's breath is toxic? ›

Keep in mind that the entire baby's breath flowers are toxic to pets as well as to people. It is best when used as decorations instead of for consumption. Vomiting and diarrhea can occur when you eat baby's breath flowers.

How can I keep my baby's breath forever? ›

Quickly unwrap it from it's wrapping, snip them at their stems and place them in a vase of fresh water. Don't forget to replace the water daily to keep them staying fresh as long as possible! You can also give them a fresh cut on the end of the stems daily to ensure the blooms continue to get a fresh source of water.

Is Aster and baby's breath the same? ›

Aster flower or better known as baby's breath.

What is the real name for baby's breath? ›

Baby's breath (Gypsophila paniculata)

What does Gypso mean? ›

gyp·​soph·​i·​la jip-ˈsä-fə-lə : any of a large genus (Gypsophila) of Old World herbs of the pink family having loosely branching clusters of numerous small, delicate, usually white or pink flowers : baby's breath.

Does baby breath look cheap? ›

Baby's breath is not only pretty and romantic looking, it's also quite inexpensive. You can probably create four brides maides bouquets for around $50. If it's made of birch bark or burlap, I pretty much like it.

Is baby's breath more expensive? ›

There are many advantages, but also a couple of disadvantages to using this flower in your wedding. Advantages Obviously the cost savings is a big one. Baby's breath costs significantly less than a wedding full of roses, for instance.

Is purple baby's breath natural? ›

Baby's breath flowers are naturally white in color. There are some varieties that come in light yellow or pink too. However, florists in Singapore may add a touch of color to baby's breath flowers by spraying them with dye.

Are baby's breath and Queen Anne's lace the same? ›

Queen Anne's Lace is similar to Baby's Breath with its tiny and delicate clusters of small white flowers, however, these clusters are located at the top of the stem and create kind of a starburst pattern, or a flat topped umbel (think of an upside down umbrella), rather than scattered along the stems like Baby's Breath ...

Is Gypsophila Mirabella baby's breath? ›

Mirabella Baby's Breath is a variety of Gypso (Gypsophila). The ideal “filler,” Baby's Breath provides just the right amount of volume to your bouquet. The flower is sturdy, has a long vase life and is available year-round. It is also attractively priced.

Is Gypsophila overtime baby's breath? ›

Overtime white gypsophila is a new improved variety of baby's breath. Grown mostly in South America. Stems are 25-30″ tall. At least 7-10 stems per bunch.

What flower is Devil's Breath? ›

Devil's Breath is derived from the flower of the “borrachero” shrub, common in the South American country of Colombia. The seeds, when powdered and extracted via a chemical process, contain a chemical similar to scopolamine called “burandanga”.

Is Gypsophila cheap? ›

As baby's breath is so budget-friendly - it's much more affordable than many in-demand wedding flowers like garden roses and peonies. It's the perfect option for pairing with more expensive blooms like orchids, while still creating a luxe and full floral look like the one above by The Rosehip & Berry.

Can you grow baby's breath from cuttings? ›

When propagating baby's breath, you will likely have better success by taking cuttings from an existing plant or planting one in the landscape. Baby's breath is normally grown as an annual flower in most areas, but some types are hardy perennials. All types are easily grown from cuttings taken in early summer.

What is the rarest pink flower? ›

The flowers range in color from violet to bright pink. The Middlemist's Red camellia is considered the rarest flower in the world. Only two known examples are believed to exist, one in New Zealand and another one in England. The plant was brought from China to England in 1804 by John Middlemist.

Can you get yellow Gypsophila? ›

GYPSOPHILA DYED YELLOW is approx. 70cm and wholesaled in Batches of 25 stems. Very popular in wedding floristry and for events, in advertising & for product packaging.

What does dragons breath plant look like? ›

Dragon's Breath celosia is a newer variety that shows off rich reddish-pink flowers and purple-flushed foliage. It grows 24 inches and 16 wide. Celosia 'Dragon's Breath' makes a superb feature plant for your summer patio displays. Feathery plumes of pillar-box red flowers rise above a mass of red-green foliage.

What are the purple spring flowers called? ›

Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) – Lilac produces small purple flowers that grow in dense clumps on the bush. It symbolizes rebirth and is often associated with Easter. Lilacs have a fragrant scent and are often found in gardens and decorative bouquets.

Is baby breath a funeral flower? ›

If you wish to express sympathy and grief at a funeral for a child, baby's breath would be a good choice for your arrangement. However, this flower can also be used to express these feelings for friends and family of all ages.

Why is gypsophila called baby's Breath? ›

Baby's breath has been a popular gift for baby showers for years now, which is where some say its name originates from. However, alternative perspectives suggest that because they're small and delicate, the name Baby's breath reflects their use as a small whisper of an accent amongst other flowers.

How do you grow pink baby's breath? ›

How to Plant Baby's Breath From Established Plants
  1. Choose the site. Baby's breath prefers full sun, so pick a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight a day.
  2. Prepare the soil. ...
  3. Plant the baby's breath. ...
  4. Stake the plant, if necessary. ...
  5. Water. ...
  6. Take cuttings.
7 Jun 2021

What does pink baby's breath symbolize? ›

Common Baby's Breath Flower Colors and Their Meanings

Pink baby's breath flowers often express love, appreciation, and admiration. They can also represent femininity and elegance. Like commonly held white flower meanings, white baby's breath flowers are associated with purity, innocence, and young love.

Can you change the color of baby's breath? ›

You can use a special air brush tool to color the fresh-cut flowers. Once the paint dries, you can add the flower to the arrangement you desire. Dip method- You can also dip the baby's breath blooms in water with food coloring and alum.

Does baby's breath have different colors? ›

Baby's breath flowers are very small and delicate. They are most often white, but can be found in pink, purple, and red as well. Baby's breath is one of the most popular filler flowers for bridal bouquets and other arrangements. The small size and light color of the baby's breath complements other, larger flowers well.

What does pink baby breath mean? ›

Orange blooms symbolize joy and optimism while red Baby Breath flowers – obviously – signifies love and romance. Pink ones are meant to express gentleness and emotions while purple conveys royalty and beauty.

Is there pink babies breath? ›

Gypsophila paniculata Pink (Pink Baby's Breath) Bears thousands of white double flowers that create an airy, cloudlike display in the summer border. Plants form a bushy, upright mound and, once established, are drought tolerant. Great for cutting for dried and fresh arrangements.

Is baby's Breath outdated? ›

These days, baby's breath is a pretty outdated filler—but that doesn't mean it has no place in wedding décor! Some brides are modernizing this trend by using baby's breath on its own.

What is a single rose with baby's breath called? ›

This boutonniere provides a more updated look with a single red rose surrounded by baby's breath.

Is babys breath an expensive flower? ›

The Good: Baby's breath is an inexpensive and affordable option for bridesmaids' bouquets or centerpieces. It's extremely hardy and has a long lifetime. This flower also offers a light, alluring and sweet look.

How long does real baby's breath last? ›

How Long Does Baby's Breath Last? Baby's breath is a hardy shrub. It's a common joke among growers that the baby's breath plant is something even the worst flower growers can't kill. Fresh ones will last anywhere from 8-10 days, or more when properly cared for.

Does baby's breath have another name? ›

Gypsophila paniculata, the baby's breath, common gypsophila or panicled baby's-breath, is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae, native to central and eastern Europe.

Can you grow baby's breath? ›

Baby's Breath may be grown from seed sown early indoors and transplanted outside after frost, or sown directly in the garden in summer, or planted as a potted plant. Sowing Seed Indoors: Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before outdoor planting date in spring.

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