Saponaria

Family: Caryophyllaceae
Common Name: Soapwort

Both the generic name and the common name refer to the juice of the leaves of S. officinalis, which lathers like soap when placed in water. The 20 species of annuals, biennials and perennials are all from Europe and south-west Asia, some being regarded as weeds.

Species

S. caespitosa, zone 7, is a low-growing perennial, to 15 cm (6 in), producing masses of pink flowers which are larger than those of most other species.

S. ocymoides, zone 4, also a perennial, grows to 10 cm (4 in). With its trailing habit, it is used for growing in rock gardens or on banks and walls. It forms a carpet of small, deep pink, five-petalled flowers, borne in sprays, in summer.

S. officinalis, bouncing Bet, zone 4, is a vigorous, spreading perennial, to 60 cm (24 in) high, with sprays of pink, summer flowers. Cultivar 'Rubra Plena' has double, red flowers and 'Alba Plena' has double, white flowers.

Cultivation

Saponarias require a sunny situation, but will thrive in almost any soil. Propagate annuals from seed and perennials from cuttings or by division.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones.