Soapwort (Saponaria sp.) is a perennial plant which spreads horizontally and blooms for a long period starting in late spring.    The flowers open at night and last for about 3 days each, but new buds are always on their way for a continuous display for months.   The flowers resemble phlox and are a shade of pink.    It is a low-maintenance perennial as long as it is kept under control.      It will spread if allowed to.

We deadhead frequently to keep a compact shape and to prevent reseeding.    We have successfully transplanted new plants to other parts of the garden

Soapwort will fill in space in a flower bed, but must be pruned to keep it from overwhelming nearby low-growing plants.    We use it near the front of the flower bed and in any location where the plant can spill over a wall or rockery tier.

Soapwort was used to make soap traditionally because of the concentration of saponin, which is mildly toxic, but it was also used as a useful herb for a variety of purposes.

We have soapwort in the garden for a prolific display of color, timed for a period after spring bulbs, but we also make sure we maintain its size, scope, and reseeding capacity.