Saponaria ocymoides |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Rock Soapwort |
Saponaria is a sprawling plant which forms a nice carpet of semi-evergreen foliage. Small sprays of pink flowers appear in early summer. It works well in a rock garden, as a groundcover, or between stepping stones on a path.
The common name, Soapwort, refers to the sap from the roots of S. officinalis which was once used to make soap.
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
8 Inches
Spread:
12-15 Inches
Flower Color:
Pink shades
Purple-red shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Full sun (> 6 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Low water needs
Average water needs
Want to see wings?:
Attracts butterflies
Attracts hummingbirds
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Medium
When should it bloom?:
Early summer
How's your soil?:
Poor Soil
Average Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Rock Garden
Eclectic
Saponaria prefers full sun and average to dry, well-drained soil. Cut plants back by about half after they are finished blooming to maintain a compact habit. This may also provide the added benefit of sporadic repeat bloom in late summer.