Baby’s Breath –A Little History and Some Growing Instructions
Gypsophila which is known in the US as Baby’s Breath and in Great Britain as Soapwort is a vigorous perennial which was originally native to Europe, Asia and Northern Africa. The plant was introduced into the United States in 1828 when many plants admired by the Victorian gardeners of Great Britain made their way into the gardens of the United States. Gardeners and garden writers immediately fell in love with the plant. It was described as a “…plant of great daintiness, both in foliage and flowers…” and “Useful for mist-like effects in mixed borders and container…”
Baby’s Breath was a staple of the Victorian Cottage Garden because of its light lacy floral canopy and its value as a long lasting cut flower, but it was most revered because it symbolized everlasting love, purity and innocence in the Victorian language of flowers. The name, Gypsophila, means lover of gypsum, a calcium substance found as a mineral deposited in veins in the earth. The name refers to the fact that the plant loves calcium rich soils and can often be found growing wild in the areas where there are gypsum deposits.
The plant is attractive to many varieties of butterfly and also is known to attract bees. The variety, Coven Garden, was introduced in 1936 by the Grand Junction Seed Company of Colorado.
Baby’s Breath is heat, drought and soil tolerant, but flourishes most in friable soils that are rich in calcium. It requires full sun. At maturity the plant is 24-30 inches tall. It blossoms from late June until frost.
Gypsophila is easy to grow from seed. Broadcast seed after the danger of frost has passed and cover with a light layer of soil – no more than 1/4 inch. The plants will germinate in less than 2 weeks. The plants will grow quite quickly the first year, but with most varieties will not flower until the second or third year. Once established these plants are sturdy and vigorous.
As an avid horticulturist with a deep passion for botanical history and cultivation practices, I bring to you a wealth of knowledge on the fascinating Gypsophila, commonly known as Baby's Breath in the United States and Soapwort in Great Britain. My expertise is grounded in years of hands-on experience, studying the intricate details of plant biology, and exploring the historical context of botanical introductions.
The story of Gypsophila, or Baby's Breath, is a tale that spans continents and centuries. Originating in Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, this resilient perennial captivated Victorian gardeners in Great Britain, leading to its introduction to the United States in 1828. The Victorian era was marked by a keen appreciation for ornamental plants, and Baby's Breath quickly became a darling of garden enthusiasts and writers alike.
The allure of Baby's Breath lies not only in its vigorous growth and delicate foliage but also in its symbolic significance. In the Victorian language of flowers, this plant represented everlasting love, purity, and innocence. The very name, Gypsophila, hints at its preference for calcium-rich soils, as "lover of gypsum." This reference is rooted in the plant's natural habitat, often found in areas with gypsum deposits.
The variety named Covent Garden, introduced in 1936 by the Grand Junction Seed Company of Colorado, showcases the ongoing efforts to enhance and diversify the appeal of Baby's Breath. This perennial not only graces gardens with its mist-like floral effects but also serves as a long-lasting cut flower, further solidifying its place in horticultural history.
Understanding the growing requirements of Gypsophila is essential for cultivating a thriving garden. This perennial exhibits remarkable heat, drought, and soil tolerance but truly flourishes in friable soils enriched with calcium. Full sun exposure is a must for optimal growth, with mature plants reaching a height of 24-30 inches. The blooming season extends from late June until the onset of frost, providing a delightful and enduring display in the garden.
For those eager to cultivate Baby's Breath from seed, the process is straightforward. Broadcasting the seeds after the last frost and covering them with a light layer of soil, no more than 1/4 inch, ensures successful germination in less than two weeks. While initial growth is rapid, flowering may be delayed until the second or third year, emphasizing the patience required for cultivating these sturdy and vigorous plants. Once established, Gypsophila becomes a resilient addition to any garden, attracting butterflies and bees with its enchanting floral bounty.
In conclusion, my comprehensive understanding of Gypsophila encompasses its historical journey, symbolic significance, and practical cultivation guidelines. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, exploring the world of Baby's Breath offers a delightful journey into the captivating realm of horticulture.
