Species soapwort

soapwort

Saponaria officinalis 'Flore Pleno'

Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis 'Flore Pleno') is an attractive and fragrant flowering perennial that grows in zones 3 to 9. It tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers light, well-drained soil in full sun. It features dark green foliage and large, pink double delicately-fragrant flowers. It can reach up to two feet in height. In addition to its aesthetics, this plant is prized for its medicinal properties and has been used medicinally since Roman times. The crushed stems, when mixed with water, produce a soapy substance that can be used to wash wool and silk. It's a perfect choice for butterfly gardens, sunny borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Pink Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Soapwort prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil and bright, indirect light. It should be watered deeply every week during its growing season, from spring to autumn. Depending on the temperature, humidity, and soil conditions, you may need to water it more often during hot, dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out in between watering, avoiding soggy or wet soil. Once the flowers have finished blooming in the autumn, stop watering and let the top of the soil dry out. It should not be watered at all during its dormant winter period.

sunlight

Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis 'Flore Pleno') will require full sun for a minimum of 6-8 hours per day in order to thrive. In cooler climates, this plant can tolerate partial sun but still needs at least 6 hours of full, direct sunlight a day for optimal growth. In warm climates, the plant will need protection from hot, afternoon sun. Soapwort should be placed in an area that receives morning sun and less intense afternoon sunlight.

pruning

Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis 'Flore Pleno') should be pruned annually in late spring or early summer. This is when the plants are actively growing and flowering ovariess are just beginning to develop. Pruning should be done lightly and should take off no more than 1/3 of the plant. This type of plant benefits from being cut back as it encourages new growth and helps redress the plants aging tendencies. It also promotes the flowering of new blooms. Soapwort should not be pruned in late summer or autumn as this could interrupt the plants natural cycle and stunt growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Soapwort typically starts flowering in April or May.

Hardiness Map