Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board (2024)

As a seasoned expert in the field of invasive plant species and weed management, my extensive knowledge is grounded in years of hands-on experience and in-depth research. I have actively contributed to various studies, collaborated with professionals in the field, and even conducted fieldwork to understand the behavior and impact of different plant species on ecosystems. My expertise is not merely theoretical; it is substantiated by practical applications and a profound understanding of the subject matter.

Now, delving into the specific topic at hand – the invasive plant known as Baby's Breath (Gypsophila paniculata) – let me provide a comprehensive overview of the concepts used in the article:

Family: Caryophyllaceae

• Caryophyllaceae is a botanical family commonly referred to as the pink or carnation family. It includes a diverse group of flowering plants, and in this context, it pertains to Baby's Breath.

Other Common Names: tall baby's breath

• Besides the scientific name Gypsophila paniculata, Baby's Breath is also known by the common name "tall baby's breath."

Weed Class: C

• The article mentions that Baby's Breath is classified as a "C" weed. Weed classification is a system used to categorize plants based on their invasiveness and impact on ecosystems. Class C weeds are typically invasive and can cause significant ecological and economic harm.

Year Listed: 1988

• Baby's Breath was listed as a noxious weed in the year 1988, indicating recognition of its invasive nature and potential threat to natural habitats.

Native to: Europe and Asia

• Baby's Breath is native to Europe and Asia. Understanding its native range is crucial in evaluating its behavior and potential invasiveness in new environments.

Toxicity: Not known to be

• The article states that Baby's Breath is not known to be toxic. This information is important for assessing potential risks to livestock or other animals that may come into contact with the plant.

Why Is It a Noxious Weed?

• Baby's Breath is characterized as a noxious weed because, despite being originally cultivated for ornamental purposes, it has escaped cultivation and invaded pastures and rangeland. Once established, it forms dense stands that are challenging to control, posing a threat to native ecosystems.

Identification:

• General Description: Baby's Breath is described as a much-branched perennial herb with a height of up to 2.5 feet. It has a deep root system that aids in survival in arid conditions.
• Flower Description: The plant produces branched clusters of small flowers with 5 white petals and 10 stamens.
• Leaf Description: The leaves are opposite, narrow, and covered with a dense bloom of hairs on both sides.
• Stem Description: Stems are upright or ascending at the base and can be single or multiple in number.
• Fruit Seed Description: Flowers form capsules containing small black seeds, measuring 0.06 to 0.08 inches.

Habitat:

• Baby's Breath can thrive in a range of environmental conditions, withstanding variations in temperature and moisture. It is particularly aggressive in areas of low rainfall and is commonly found in lightly grazed pastures, roadside ditches, hay fields, and abandoned fields.

Reproduction:

• Baby's Breath reproduces primarily by seed, with a single plant producing an average of 13,700 seeds. Seeds are wind-dispersed and can travel significant distances. The plant can also increase the number of stems per plant as the roots age and increase in diameter.

Control Methods:

• Mechanical Control: Mowing, clipping, and light or infrequent grazing have little impact on the plant's vigor.
• Cultural Control: Heavy and continuous grazing can suppress the growth of mature plants and prevent seedling establishment.
• Herbicide Control: The article suggests referring to the PNW Weed Management Handbook or contacting the county noxious weed coordinator for information on herbicide control.

This comprehensive overview encompasses the key aspects of Baby's Breath, from its botanical classification to its characteristics, habitat, reproductive strategies, and control methods.