Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis), packet of 20 seeds, organic
$4.95
Family: Pink (Caryophyllaceae)
Hardy to Zones 4 to 8
(Bouncing Bet, Wild Sweet William, Common Soapwort) Herbaceous perennial. Native to southern Europe; a standby in English gardens. Upright plant with lance-shaped leaves and pretty white/pink flowers. The flowers attract myriads of night pollinators, especially hawk moths. The root is loaded with saponins which can be used as a soap substitute. Sow in spring by barely covering seed, tamping securely and keeping warm and in the light until germ, which takes about 30 days. Thin to 1 foot apart. Flowers to 2 to 3 feet. Will spread and make a patch. Excellent choice for permanent bedding plant or potted culture.
20 seeds/pkt., Certified Organically Grown
In stock
Question
laine_2009 (verified owner) –
Would this work for hair or is it too harsh?
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Richo Cech –
hi laine! Saponaria shampoo is lovely for the hair! richo
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Question
RB –
If I buy the seeds now will they still be viable next spring to plant.
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Richo Cech –
Hello RB, Yes, these particular seeds have a lot of endosperm and will last for many years. I recommend a light scarification and planting outdoors in very early spring–they are slow to germinate and like it cold.
Richo
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lauren –
good day! would i be able to make enough soap for clothes washing?
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Richo Cech –
hi lauren, no this wouldn’t really be practical. r
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Question
debra Mason –
How tall does it grow?
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debra Mason –
How long can you store dried plant to make when you need it?
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Richo Cech –
I’ve only used the root. It lasts for years, like a bar of soap.
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Richo Cech –
About knee high.
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Question
Cori Jo –
How do you prepare the root for use in washing?
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Admin Richo Cech –
Hi Cori,
The saponins are in the roots as well as stem, leaves and flowers. Use a handfull of fresh chopped plant per quart of water. Soak overnight and in the morning simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and allow to cool before use. richo
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cunningham5605 (verified owner) –
Hi! May I ask what is the seed longevity for soapwort? Thanks!
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Admin Richo Cech –
Hello Cori Jo,
Saponaria seeds are relatively large and thus contain significant energy resources in a very tough testa. I have planted 3-year-old seeds with good results. Always, it is a waiting game as germination times are relatively long. Cold pre-treatment may help.
Richo
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