GYPSOPHILA. Mediterranean region, New Zealand, Australia. This is a diverse group of annuals and perennials, some of them woody-based, related to Dianthus. They all have small five-petalled blossoms shaded white to rose pink, usually carried in open, airy clusters. The following are all easily grown perennials. Sun, well drained soil (preferably not too acid), moderate watering. Hardy to 0^oF or below.

cerastioides. Himalaya. A low mat packed with short, broad leaves. These are dark green above, grey-green beneath. The plant is completely covered in early summer by short clusters of 3/4" broad-petalled white flowers.

paniculata. Baby’s breath. A perennial best known for its contribution to summer floral arrangements. It branches at the base to produce many erect to sprawling stems lined by narrow bluish green 4" leaves. Above them rise intricately branched clusters of tiny white to pink blossoms, displayed from late spring to fall. ‘Perfecta’ is similar to the popular ‘Bristol Fairy’, but produces larger double white blossoms on 3-4’ stems. ‘Pink Fairy’ is a dwarf (12-18") selection with double flowers of light pink. ‘Viette’s Dwarf’ is quite similar. Winter deciduous.

repens. A trailing plant which eventually forms compact mounds 6" tall by 1½’ to 3’ broad. Its slender stems are closely lined with bright bluish green, narrow leaves. Sprays of tiny blossoms issue from the shoot tips in late spring and fall, or sometimes throughout the summer months. The form rosea has bright pink blossoms, while those of alba are pure white. More or less winter deciduous.