Saponaria officinalis 'Rosea Plena' (d)

RHS Plant Profile
soapwort 'Rosea Plena'
Herbaceous Perennial

A vigorous upright perennial to around 60cm high, with spreading rhizomes and narrowly ovate, rough green leaves. Clusters of fragrant, double rose-pink flowers are borne at the tips of the stems from late summer well into autumn

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Saponaria can be annuals or perennials, with opposite, entire leaves and small clusters of pink or purple flowers in summer
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun. Tolerates poor soils. May be suitable for beds and borders, but has the potential to become a nuisance and should be carefully managed to control spread

Propagation

Propagate by division in autumn or spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Banks and slopes

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free