Where does saponaria officinalis grow?
Habitats include sloping banks of streams, gravel bars and sand bars along streams, areas along roadsides and railroads, prairie remnants along railroads, weedy meadows, and waste areas. Soapwort is still cultivated in flowerbeds and herbal gardens. Although some butterflies and moths visit, soapwort’s flowers aren’t very attractive to insects. Mammals tend not to eat the foliage because of the toxic saponins in the sap. This plant is weedy, even invasive in some areas. Where it outcompetes valuable native plants, soapwort is a problem.The soap plants thrives with minimal care, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels. It prefers well-drained soil and needs only occasional watering, especially during its growing season.
What is the common name for Saponaria officinalis?
Saponaria officinalis — common soapwort. Saponaria officinalis’ native range extends throughout Europe, and in Asia to western Siberia. It grows in cool places at low or moderate elevations under hedgerows and along the shoulders of roadways. It can be found as a horticultural escape and noxious invasive in much of North America.