Gypsophila repens - Alpine gypsophila

Gypsophila repens, known as alpine gypsophila, is a persistent herbaceous plant from the family of the Caryophyllaceae. This species is at home in the European Alps, the Pyrenees and other mountain regions of southern Europe. It is valued for its filigree flowers and low, carpet -forming growth and is used in both nature and garden design.

Morphology and appearance

Gypsophila repens is a low -growing, upholstery -forming plant that reaches a height of 10 to 20 centimeters. It spreads through its creeping, branched shoots, which cover the soil tightly and thereby take on an effective ground cover function. The plant forms a fine, dense structure that offers erosion protection and stabilizes open areas in alpine habitats.

The leaves are small, narrow lanceolate to ruler and gray -green. They are bald and slightly meaty, which helps the plant to survive in their often dry and nutrient -poor natural habitats.

The flowers of Gypsophila repens are small, star -shaped and reach a diameter of about 1 centimeter. From June to August they appear in loose, branched inflorescences. The color of the flowers varies depending on the variety and ranges from pure white to delicate pink tones to a pale violet pink. Each flower consists of five delicate crown leaves that are slightly rounded.

Distribution and habitat

Gypsophila repens is widespread in mountainous regions of Europe, especially in the Alps, Pyrenees and Carpathians. The plant prefers limestone, stony or gravelly soils and is often found on rock slopes, in rocky slices or on rubble dumps. It grows at altitudes between 500 and 2,500 meters and is adapted to a rough, alpine climate.

The plant prefers sunny locations and is extremely dry -resistant, which makes it a typical representative of alpine flora. Due to its specialization in lime -containing soils, it finds only a limited habitat in other soil types.

Ecological importance

Gypsophila repens plays an important role in its natural habitat. Its dense cushions protect the soil from erosion and create microhabitats for other plants and animals. Insects, especially bees and butterflies, regularly visit the plant as it is an important source of nectar in barren alpine regions.

Use and care

Gypsophila repens is estimated in garden culture as an ornamental plant, especially in rock gardens, dry stone walls and as a ground cover. Your undemanding nature and its filigree appearance make you an attractive addition in natural and easy -care garden designs.

The plant prefers fully sunny locations and well -permeable, limed floors. It is extremely dry -resistant and only requires minimal care. A pruning after flowering can promote growth and keep the plant compact. Gypsophila repens is hardy and survives temperatures up to -20 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climates.

Various varieties are available in breeding, which are characterized by different flower colors and growth forms. This variety makes it a varied and adaptable plant for different applications.

Gypsophila repens remains a prime example of the beauty and resilience of the alpine flora and combines aesthetic stimulus with ecological functionality.