85 days. Saponaria officinalis. Perennial. Open Pollinated. Soapwort. The plant produces abundant blooms and dark green leaves. A popular heirloom herb prized for its high saponin content, fragrant pink or white flowers (often clove-scented and stronger in the evening), and ornamental use in cottage gardens, borders, rock gardens, or as groundcover. Leaves, roots, and seeds produce a gentle lather when mixed with water, historically used as a mild soap or detergent for delicate fabrics, wool, and skin. Used to make homemade soaps and shampoo by soaking the roots and leaves in hot water. Also used to relieve skin itchiness and pain, and as a soap. Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It is low-maintenance once established. Drought Tolerant. Excellent choice for herb gardens. United States Department of Agriculture, PI 4758. An heirloom variety from Europe, Asia, and the USA.
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Seeds Per Pound: 320,000
Plant Height: 1 to 3 ft tall
Sunlight: Partial Shade/Full Sun
Planting Method: Indoor Sow/Direct Sow (Direct Sow when soil is cool but workable. In mild climates, fall sowing also works.)
Planting Instructions
Cold Stratification: Refrigerate for 2 to 4 weeks to improve germination.
Planting Instructions: Surface-sow; barely cover seeds, ⅛" deep. Cover lightly with a thin layer of Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Mix and water gently.
Plant Thinning: Thin plants to 12 to 18" apart.
Soil Facts: Requires well-prepared soil. It tolerates poor, rocky, or sandy soil. Neutral to slightly alkaline preferred. Good drainage prevents root issues. Mulch in colder zones for winter protection
Fertilizer: Little to none needed; lean soil is better.
Germination: 14 to 36 days (sometimes longer) at cool to moderate temperatures, 55 to 70 F. Light can help germination. Expect blooms in the second year from seeds. Requires 16 weeks for full maturity. Success rates improve with stratification and consistent moisture during germination.
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