Saponaria ocymoides aka Rock Soapwort

Taxonomy

Saponaria ocymoides, also known as the rock soapwort or tumbling Ted, is a semi-evergreen perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to southwestern and southern central Europe. This mat-forming plant boasts masses of bright pink flowers that bloom in early summer, held in loose sprays at the tips of its many branches. Its small, ovate, olive-green leaves are smothered by the blooms. Rock soapwort is a rare houseplant that is easy to grow, and it needs regular watering to thrive. It prefers long-lasting, direct light and soil that is well-draining. Repotting is recommended each time it doubles in size, and fertilizers are not necessary.

Common names

Rock Soapwort, Tumbling Ted

How to care for Rock Soapwort

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Rock Soapwort due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Rock Soapwort should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Rock Soapwort loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Rock Soapwort thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Rock Soapwort.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Rock Soapwort to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Rock Soapwort is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Rock Soapwort’s native range is Europe.


More info:
Wikipedia