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Soapwort - Saponaria officinalis

Type: Perennial

Soapwort originally comes from Europe and the Middle East where its cleansing attributes have been utilized for centuries. Saponaria officionalis, is an easy to grow perennial herb that contains beneficial saponins which make a gentle and effective cleansing agent. In the past, it was usesd to clean textiles and wool, but it's primary use presently is as a natural source for shampoo.

All parts of the plant can be used for making a soap-like decoction: however, the roots have the highest concentration of saponin.

Growing 60-90cm tall, and happily flourishing in any soil type or situation, Soapwort needs to be controlled as it can become invasive, but it is well worth having in the garden as it's rich green leaves and pretty clusters of pale-pink flowers in late summer are striking.