Saponaria officinalis 'Rubra Plena' (d)
double soapwort
A vigorous upright perennial to around 60cm high, with spreading rhizomes and narrowly ovate, rough green leaves. Clusters of fragrant, double, vibrant reddish-pink flowers are borne at the tips of the stems from late summer into autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Pink | Green | ||
Autumn | Pink | Green | ||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical 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
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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