Saponaria ocymoides is a semi-herbaceous perennial with bright pink, 5 petaled flowers that smother it in late spring and early summer. Also called Soapwort, it is a mat forming semi-evergreen ground cover with trailing stems. The leaves and the reddish colored stems are covered with fine hairs. Saponaria ocymoides may self-sow, but is not aggressive. Trim hard after flowering to encourage fresh bushy growth and additional blooms.

Saponaria ocymoides prefers sun to light shade and well-drained soils. It is drought tolerant once established. It may suffer during hot, humid summer conditions.