Turkish Baby’s-Breath

(Gypsophila pilosa)

Turkish Baby’s-Breath (Gypsophila pilosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Gypsophila pilosa, commonly known as Turkish Baby’s-Breath or Hairy Gypsophila, is an annual herb native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia, particularly thriving in steppe habitats, dry grasslands, and rocky outcrops. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1.5 feet (0.15-0.5 meters) and is characterized by its slender stems and delicate, airy clusters of small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer, adding a soft texture to garden compositions. The flowers are highly appreciated for their ethereal quality and are often used in floral arrangements.

Turkish Baby’s-Breath is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also popular as a filler plant in borders and cottage gardens due to its fine-textured foliage and flowers. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and does well in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, provided they have good drainage. It requires low amounts of water once established, reflecting its adaptation to dry habitats. While generally easy to grow, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Steppe habitats, dry grasslands, and rocky outcrops in Eastern Europe and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Hairy Baby’s Breath, Hairy Gypsophila

Scientific Names: , Gypsophila pilosa, Gypsophila porrigens, Hagenia filiformis, Pseudosaponaria pilosa, Saponaria porrigens, Silene porrigens, Silene porrigens,

GBIF Accepted Name: