• Pretty pink flowers
• Gentle cleaning agent
• Easy to grow
• Good for a wildlife garden

Soapwort contains saponins in the leaves and roots which when boiled with water produces a soapy solution much used in the past for washing wool, textiles and laundry. It has a history of medicinal use for venereal diseases and leprosy, but is toxic in large doses and no longer used. With its prolific pink flowers it makes a pretty plant, but is best grown in a pot.

Plant care

• Height: 60-100cm
• Type: Hardy
• Aspect: Sun
• Soil: Any/alkaline
• Flower colour: Pin
• Flowering period: July – September

Soapwort is an easy to grow perennial which likes a rich soil that doesnt dry out too much in summer and sun for most of the day. It does spread like mint via thick root and if space is an issue it is better grown in a pot. It can fill any container in a season and will probably need splitting most years to maintain an attractive flowering plant.