Saponaria officinalis
Common Soapwort
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Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Description
Saponaria officinalis is common perennial plant from the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). This plant has many common names, including common soapwort, bouncing-bet, crow soap, wild sweet William, and soapweed. There are about 20 species of soapworts altogether. The scientific name Saponaria is derived from the Latin sapo (stem sapon-) meaning "soap," which, like its common name, refers to its utility in cleaning.
Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Blooming
Clusters of five-petaled flowers, usually in shades of pink.
Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Growth
Leaves are simple and usually lance shaped. Annuals and perennials. Some species half a foot to two feet tall.
Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Planting
Can be grown from seed, but double-flowered forms do not come true and should be propagated vegetatively.
Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Interesting facts
Saponarias, or Soapworts, are so named because the crush leaves and roots exude compounds that act as emulsifiers. These compounds are good as a natural soap. The plants are mildly toxic and should not be ingested.
Common Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Soil and irrigation
Average, well-drained soil, preferably with neutral to alkaline pH. Sandy soil is fine.
