Care of the plant Gypsophila muralis or Annual baby's-breath |
The genus Gypsophila, family Caryophyllaceae, comprises 100 species of annual and perennial plants native to the Mediterranean region, Europe and the Middle East. Some species are: Gypsophila repens, Gypsophila muralis, Gypsophila paniculata, Gypsophila elegans, Gypsophila cerastioides. Common names: Annual baby's-breath, Annual gypsophila, Cushion baby's-breath. This species is native to Europe. They are annual plants of creeping or erect bearing that reach 40 cm (15.74") in height. They have lanceolate leaves arranged in opposite pairs. The small and abundant flowers appear in inflorescences, have 5 petals and are pink or white. They bloom from spring to late summer. Annual baby's-breath is used in borders, colored beds, rockeries, slopes and for cut flowers. Gypsophila muralis needs full sun or semi-shade exposure and average annual temperatures of 15-25 ºC (59-77 ºF). The soil must contain organic matter, be very well drained and not contain much lime. Water moderately all year round; it is very important to wait until the substrate has dried. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer during the flowering period. Cushion baby's-breath is a plant quite resistant to pests and diseases; it can be attacked by aphids. Gypsophila muralis propagates by seeds sown in spring or by root stem cuttings. |
Images of the plant Gypsophila muralis or Annual baby's-breath |