“Saponaria officinalis is a common perennial plant from the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). This plant has many common names, including common soapwort, bouncing-bet, crow soap, wild sweet William, and soapweed. There are about 20 species of soapworts altogether. The scientific name Saponaria is derived from the Latin sapo (stem sapon-) meaning “soap,” which, like its common name, refers to its utility in cleaning. From this same Latin word is derived the name of the toxic substance saponin, contained in the roots at levels up to 20 percent when the plant is flowering (Indian soapnuts contain only 15 percent). It produces a lather when in contact with water. The epithet officinalis indicates its medicinal functions. The plants possesses leafy, unbranched stems (often tinged with red). It grows in patches, attaining a height of 70 cm. The broad, lanceolate, sessile leaves are opposite and between 4 and 12 cm long. Its sweetly scented flowers are radially symmetrical and pink, or sometimes white.” To read more click here
9 thoughts on “Day 235: Soapwort”
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That’s a great shot of an interesting plant and such pretty little flowers.
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Thank you! Pretty and very useful on laundry day. 😀
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A pretty and useful little plant to have around…especially on wash day;-)
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Indeed! 😀
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A modest little flower but oh so sweet.
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And sudsy too! 😀
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beautiful
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Thank you! 🙂
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