All about baby’s breath

Roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums are all popular and well-known types of fresh flowers. While these blooms are often used as focal or mass flowers in an arrangement, baby’s breath is clearly the most popular of all filler flowers. They have a wonderful way of adding that perfect finishing touch and they help the focal blooms stand out. They are not usually added in large quantities but rather small bunches here and there.

Also known as gypsophila paniculata, baby’s breath was originally found in Eastern Europe. These flowering plants prefer dry, sandy soil and, when in bloom, you cannot help but feel amazed by the impressive floral display. The first samples of this plant were sent to St Petersburg by a Swiss-Russian botanist named Johann Amman. This sample made its way all the way to Linnaeus.

It didn’t take long for baby’s breath to become popular and soon countries like Peru were cultivating these tiny blooms. In fact, most of Peru’s flower exports are baby’s breath! Since they can be used in just about any kind of bouquet, it’s easy to see why there is such a great demand for them. Florists around the world like to keep baby’s breath in stock throughout the year in order to keep up with these demands.

In Chicago and similar locations, the plant is classified as an invasive species. The conditions in these parts are perfect for the plant to thrive and, once they take root, there’s no slowing them down! On the other hand, given the great demand, many people wonder why baby’s breath growing wild would be considered a problem.

Just in case you don’t know, each flower has a special meaning thanks to something called the language of flowers. Baby’s breath is no exception and is associated with innocence, everlasting love, and purity. It’s no wonder they are often included in wedding flowers, bridal bouquets, corsages and buttonholes for weddings! For the most part they are available in white but there are some that have a slight pinkish tint. These flowers can also be tinted to suit the theme or colour scheme of your event.

Since these flowers have continued to enjoy great success over the years, there is no doubt that they will continue to prove popular for many years to come. The next time you shop for flowers, take a moment to notice just how many bouquets include baby’s breath!