The white, small and beautiful flowers of Gypsophila are known in many countries as baby’s breath. It may be that the name of these dainty little flowers is simply a reflection of their small whisper of accent among other flowers or the fact that this flower is widely used as a special baby shower gift.

There is no specific answer to why it is called Baby´s Breath, but we will present some of the strongest ideas about its origins.

Its characteristic aroma

For some people, the tiny white flowers of gypsophila are considered fresher the more they smell. But if you have it in a lot of clusters, they literally smell like sweet and sour milk, just  like a baby’s breath. Some people love its scent, but others find it unpleasant; that’s why many florists use lavender scent to counteract gypsophila smell.

Its appearance

Another possible reason why gypsophila are called “baby’s breath” is because of their cute appearance. Its adorable little flowers are mostly white and their shape is very delicate, similar to a baby’s skin or as a symbol of its pureness and innocence. 

Its relation with newborns

Maybe its name has to do with its relation with baby’s, because ​​this flower is widely used as a special baby shower gift, for its colors and delicacy. White, pink, blue and green gypsophila are used as a welcoming gift for mothers who just gave birth and also for decoration in gender revelation parties. 

What about its scientific name?

Baby’s breath’s scientific genus name gypsophila comes from the Greek words gypos and philos which mean ‘gypsum’ and ‘loving’ respectively, referencing the flower’s preference for growing in gypsum-rich soil. 

The flowers of Baby’s Breath are used to symbolize and express everlasting love and purity. Because of this, wedding bouquets and wedding floral arrangements are always added with flowers of Baby’s Breath. It reminds people to cherish each loved one and show affection as much as possible. For a past love that remains in the heart, this is also the type of flower to give.

We love these tiny little flowers. Why do YOU think they are called baby’s breath?