Wall Baby's Breath
gypsophila muralis
Also known as: ["Wall Gypsophila","Mural Gypsophila"]
Overview
A delicate, herbaceous perennial with fine, airy foliage and small, white flowers, often found in rocky or alkaline soils.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Gypsophila |
| Botanical Name: | Gypsophila muralis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure proper ventilation in indoor settings.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, alkaline soil with some sand
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; use a layer of gravel at the bottom for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates light frost but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing during dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with lime or sulfur if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced metabolic activity.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and flowering may be reduced due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGypsophila muralis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGypsophila muralis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects following ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGypsophila muralis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gypsophila muralis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Gypsophila muralis?
A: It thrives in well-drained, alkaline soils and full sun, making it suitable for rock gardens or dry landscapes.
Q: Does Gypsophila muralis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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