Gypsophila

Probably best known for the large cloud-like mass of tiny white or pink flowers on tangled stems. There are others, (in total around 100 species) but generally needing well-drained, preferably limy soil. Gypsophila, from the Greek, gypsos, meaning 'chalk/gypsum' and philos, 'loving', thus plants preferring to grow in a limy soil. Good for sunny borders in general, with more compact and spreading forms for a rock garden.

The flowers of Gypsophila may be small, but they are massed to such an effect that they (at least the non-doubled forms) attract good numbers of pollinating insects, including honeybees, butterflies and hoverflies. Some species are included in so-called 'wild flower mixes' and sown outside of gardens for amenity purposes.