Favourite Flower for January: Gypsophila

As we leave Christmas behind and start the New Year, this can often signal a colder spell of weather with hard frosts and even flurries of snow.  There are not usually many flowers to be seen in the garden at this time of year (although this year is a bit of an exception!), but the flower that sums up January for me is Gypsophila, with its frothy mass of tiny white flowers which look almost like frozen dewdrops or miniature  snowflakes.  So, if you are set to marry in January, or are looking for some floral decorations to set the scene for a winter party, take a look at how Gypsophila can be used to create a very special ‘winter white’ theme.

January’s flower – Gypsophila (Baby’s breath)

Not wanting to throw any confusion into the air here, because I should make it clear that Gypsophila does not naturally flower in UK gardens during January.  It is generally grown as an herbaceous perennial flowering in mid-summer.  However, Gypsophila can be obtained all year round and is sometimes sold with a bit of added sparkle around Christmas time for a festive look.

 Gypsophila comes into its own when it is massed together to create a cloud of tiny white stars or snowflakes.  And it works equally well with other white flowers, such as ‘Akito’ roses, to create a stunningly simple bridal bouquet.

 A simple bouquet of white Gypsophila and white roses lends itself to some additional decorative detail, such as this diamante brooch placed on the bouquet handle which matches the bride’s jewellery and other accessories.  Whatever you fancy.........

 And Gypsophila can also be used to turn a simple white rose buttonhole into something a little bit special!

 These wicker hearts have been trimmed with Gypsophila to create some special decorative features, which could be hung at strategic points in the venue or even used as pew ends. 

 Or the smaller heart would make an unusual novelty item for a flower girl to carry.

 And to continue the winter white theme throughout the day, clouds of white Gypsophila can make simple but effective table arrangements either on its own or teamed with other white flowers.  Brides on a budget will be pleased to know that this would not break the bank!

 This pretty compact arrangement has been made in florists foam and so will last very well.  The white of the ‘Akito’ roses and Gypsophila are set off by the silvery-grey foliage of senecio to maintain the limited colour palette appropriate to the wintery theme.

..........but a dusting of silver sparkle has been added to give the illusion of frost glinting in the winter sunshine.

 Using touches of Gypsophila throughout the designs helps to create a coordinated look, while adding soft candlelight brings them to life and enhances the winter white theme.