Gypsophila pacifica

Gypsophila pacifica resembles its cousin G. paniculata, well known to florists, but this Siberian species is slightly taller, its flowers and leaves are larger, its stems are thicker, and it grows in all types of soil, even if clayey and cold in winter. In summer, its airy, white-pink flowering is a delight. Its lightness enhances the opulent beauty of heavier plants. It is a robust and hardy perennial, but also very resistant to drought. A plant that undoubtedly deserves to be grown.

Gypsophila pacifica belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family, just like carnations. This botanical species is native to temperate Asia and the North: eastern Siberia, Korea, northern China. In nature, it grows in deciduous forests, meadows, and rocky areas at low altitudes. The flowering plant forms a bushy, rounded clump, reaching about 1.3m (4ft) in height and 60cm (24in) in width. Flowering occurs in July-August. The bell-shaped calyx flowers measure about 1.5cm (1in) in diameter and are grouped in somewhat loose terminal cymes. Their colour is a washed white with a hint of pink. The foliage is deciduous, absent in winter. It consists of oval leaves, measuring up to 6cm (2in) long and 3.5cm (1in) wide, with a grey-blue-green, glaucous colour. The base of the plant is woody, and the root system does not tolerate root competition from other plants. The base of the plant remains leafy in winter, and new shoots emerge quite late in spring.

Gypsophila pacifica, like all gypsophilas, brings lightness to every bed and bouquet where it is present. Its combination with the opulent flowers of tree peonies and roses is absolutely perfect. This plant requires very little maintenance and is content with very little: fairly rich soil, even heavy, cold in winter and dry in summer, will suffice. It will also be beautiful among shrub salvias, oriental poppies, and tall thistles. Create stunning tall borders with this plant. It goes well with everything!