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Also Known As: Soapwort, Outdoor Gypsophila

Botanical Name: Saponaria officinalis, S. vaccaria (Vaccaria hispanica of V. pyramidata)

Pronunciation: sa-po-NAH-ree-a o-FIS-i-nal-is or o-fis-i-NAY-lis

Family Name: Caryophyllaceae (pink)

Origin: Europe

Common Relatives: carnation, gypsophila, Lychnis, Silene

Introduction: Often seen sprawling languidly over stone walls in cottage gardens, soapwort’s wiry leafy stems are completely cloaked with a soft mat of pink and white star-shaped blooms when summer comes to call. When its roots, stems and foliage are crushed and mixed with water, soapwort produces a rich creamy lather that was used in Colonial times as a substitute for soap. In arrangements, its pink and white blooms last up to 10 days.

Interesting Facts:

• From the Latin "sapo" (soap) which was made from this plant. One meaning of the specific epithet name officinalis is medicinal, the other is officinal.

• Star-shaped flowers up to 3/4 inch wide, in loose clusters at stem ends
• plant is an herbaceous perennial from a rhizome, dicotyledon, leaves not parallel veined

Flower Color: pink, white, red

Fragrance: no

Decorative Life: 7-10 days

Special Care Tips: Should be treated with an anti-ethylene product. Remove bottom leaves if present, recut stems under water and place into a fresh flower food solution.

Special Concerns:

Ethylene Sensitivity: yes