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Physical description: Creeping baby's breath is a perennial, low growing
plant. Forming very dense mats, it can reach 6 in. tall by 24
in. wide. The leaves are gray-green, with a smooth surface and
look like grass. They reach 1 in. long. When flowering occurs,
from late spring until the end of summer, the leaves are almost
entirely covered by a multitude of flowers. The flowers, 1/3-in.
across, are colored in a range of hues from white to lilac, and
are not particularly fragrant. The fruit is non-ornamental.
Optimal growing conditions: Creeping baby's breath prefers full sun and very
well drained soil. Growth is better if planted in a light-textured
or gravelly soil (acidic soils are tolerable). The plant is easy
to establish and is long lived. In addition, it is drought tolerant,
but deep watering during summer may be beneficial. Winter hardiness:
Zones 3 to 8.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Leafhoppers may do some damage. Diseases such
as crown gall, blight, damping off, and aster yellows may be
problematic.
Use:
The plant is well suited for front borders, rock gardens, or
dry stonewalls. The visual effect is especially striking when
the plant trails over walls.
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