Saponaria ocymoides
TAXONOMY
FamilyCaryophyllaceae
GenusSaponaria
Zone4
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Saponaria ocymoides, commonly known as Rock Soapwort or Tumbling Ted, is a perennial subshrub in the Caryophyllaceae family. Native to the rocky slopes and meadows of Southern Europe, it is known for its mat-forming habit and clusters of small, pink flowers. The plant goes dormant in winter and re-emerges in spring.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Rock Soapwort
Spanizium Ocymioides
Bootia ocymoides
Saponaria alsinoides
Saponaria ocymoides subsp. alsinoides
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature18° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Rock Soapwort thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Watering should be done sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme cold.Soil
Saponaria ocymoides prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in moderately fertile soil. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a composition of 5-10-10 can be applied in the spring to promote healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly, as the plant does not require heavy feeding.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Rock Soapwort, but if grown in containers, it can be repotted in the spring. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.Propagation
Propagation can be done through seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the spring, while division is best done in early spring or fall. Ensure that each division has a good root system.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial to maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth. Prune back after flowering to remove spent blooms and trim any leggy growth.Toxicity
Saponaria ocymoides is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children.Additional
Rock Soapwort is a low-maintenance plant that is ideal for rock gardens, borders, and ground cover. It is drought-tolerant once established and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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