Soapwort

Saponaria officinalis

Family: Caryophyllaceae Herbaceous perennial.  It is a native to southern Europe, and is a standby in English gardens.  Upright plant with lance-shaped leaves and pink flowers.  The root is loaded with saponins, used for treating skin problems. Cultivation: Extra care.  Naturally low germination rates.  Sow the seed directly in the garden in fall or very early spring.  Germ. in about 30 days. Thin to 1 foot apart.  Grows to 4 or 5 feet high.

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