Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) - Wildlife-Friendly, Ancient Naturalised (Peat-Free Super Plugs & 9cm Pots)

Soapwort brings generous summer colour on upright stems (60-90 cm) topped with clusters of single, accessible flowers that suit a wide range of pollinators. Long cultivated in Britain and now ancient naturalised, it’s at home in cottage borders, meadow edges, wildlife strips and along fences where it can lean into support.

It’s unfussy: full sun to light/part shade, on ordinary well-drained to moderately moist soil (chalk/limestone friendly). Cut back after the first flush for a tidy second show, or deadhead to reduce self-seeding.

Spreading (honest note):
Soapwort can spread by short rhizomes and seed, especially in richer or moist soils. It’s easy to manage:

• Give it a defined patch or plant with a root barrier if you want crisp edges.

• Lift surplus shoots in spring (come away cleanly).

• Great for larger borders; in tiny spaces, grow in a large container or raised bed.

Heritage & folklore:
Crush the leaves/roots in water and you’ll see a gentle soap-like lather - the natural saponins were used for centuries to wash delicate textiles and tapestries (hence “Soapwort”).

Safety note:
Contains saponins (bitter/irritant) - do not ingest. Sap may irritate sensitive skin; wear gloves if needed and avoid using vase water on edible crops.

Joel says…
“Soapwort gives you months of easy flowers and a lovely, old-fashioned feel - and insects use it, especially in warm evenings. Give it sun, a bit of space, and let it do its thing. As always, peat-free and ready to thrive.”

Why Wild Your Garden?
Unlike mass-produced plants from commercial growers, our stock comes from small, peat-free family nurseries that never use pesticides or herbicides, so plants are safe for wildlife from day one. Joel has used these trusted growers for 20+ years - tried, tested, and genuinely wildlife-friendly. By buying from Wild Your Garden, you’re also supporting independent growers who put nature first.