Saponaria ocymoides is a popular rock garden perennial . In May and June, the semi-evergreen foliage is absolutely smothered with small, bright pink flowers.
Rock Soapwort looks terrific tumbling over boulders, walls, or the edges of containers or raised beds. It also makes a good groundcover or bulb cover . The flowers attract bees and butterflies .
Saponaria ocymoides is a vigorous, self-sowing perennial. Cut the plants back after blooming to keep them compact and prevent reseeding (unless desired). It is fast-growing and very hardy, making it a good choice for cold zones . To top it off, it is drought tolerant and deer resistant .
Sowing Saponaria ocymoides Seeds
Start saponaria seeds indoors 8 weeks before the last frost date. Barely cover the seeds with soil. If no germination after 4 weeks, place the pots in the fridge for 3 weeks. Full sun to part shade.