Saponaria ocymoides

Saponaria ocymoides is a popular rock garden perennial. In May and June, the semi-evergreen foliage is covered with small, bright pink flowers.

Rock Soapwort looks terrific tumbling over boulders, walls, or the edges of containers or raised beds. It also makes a good groundcover or bulb cover. The flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Saponaria ocymoides is a vigorous, self-sowing perennial. Cut the plants back after blooming to keep them compact and prevent reseeding (unless desired). It is fast-growing and very hardy, making it a good choice for cold zones. To top it off, it is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant.

Also known as Tumbling Ted, Pink Soapwort, and Trailing Rock Soapwort. It was given the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Height: 6"

Spacing: 15"

Light: Full sun to part shade

Sowing Saponaria ocymoides Seeds

Start saponaria seeds indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. Lightly cover the seeds with soil. If no germination after 4 weeks, refrigerate pots for 3 weeks.