Manchurian Baby's Breath
Gypsophila oldhamianafam. Caryophyllaceae
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Pl. 415C — Gypsophila oldhamiana
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IOverview
Overview
Manchurian Baby's Breath, scientifically known as Gypsophila oldhamiana, is a perennial forb or herb native to China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, Korea, Manchuria, and Mongolia. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows up to 1 meter tall. Known for its ornamental value, it is also edible, with leaves being the parts used. Its distinctive features include its delicate white flowers that form a spreading habit, making it a popular choice in gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Manchurian Baby's Breath?
Manchurian Baby's Breath, scientifically known as Gypsophila oldhamiana, is a perennial forb or herb native to China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, Korea, Manchuria, and Mongolia. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Manchurian Baby's Breath thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is adaptable to both dry and moist conditions but requires regular watering during dry spells. This perennial grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or division of established plants. The edible parts include the leaves, making it a versatile addition to your garden for both ornamental and culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Manchurian Baby's Breath for the first time
7steps
Start with basic care for Manchurian Baby's Breath, focusing on sunlight and soil preparation.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a garden fork, a rake.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 30 cm.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in rows, spacing them about 20-30 cm apart. For transplants, space plants 45-60 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the soil thoroughly after planting and keep it moist until germination or transplanting is complete.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain plant shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The Manchurian Baby's Breath is eaten for its leaves, which can be consumed fresh or dried. The leaves are typically used in salads or as a garnish due to their mild flavor. They can also be steeped to make a light tea.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native· 2 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (3)ChinaMongoliaSouth Korea
introduced (1)Japan
Broader regions
introduced:Alabama
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Caryophyllaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Caryophyllaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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