Bouncing-bet (Saponaria officinalis)

Also known as: Wild sweet william, Crow soap

Bouncing-bet (Saponaria officinalis), also known as soapwort, crow soap, or soapweed, is a perennial plant commonly found in North America. The name "Saponaria" is derived from the Latin word for soap, owing to the plant's ability to create a lather when its parts come into contact with water. While useful for cleaning, it is important to note that consuming large quantities of this plant can be toxic, potentially leading to nausea and digestive issues.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Bouncing-bet

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 70 cm

Spread

30 cm to 45 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Color

Pink White

Images of Bouncing-bet

Quickly Identify Bouncing-bet

Clusters of pink, rose, or white blossoms with a gentle luminosity.

Lance-shaped leaves oppositely arranged on stems measuring 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).

Noticeable sappiness in stems and leaves reflecting inherent saponins.

Simple leaves with palmately veined pattern and 3-5 prominent ribs, 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) long.

Robust specimen with compact form and resilience to light footfalls.

Scientific Classification of Bouncing-bet

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Pink

Genus

Soapworts

Species

Bouncing-bet

Planting and Growing of Bouncing-bet

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 6 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

59-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Bouncing-bet?

For Saponaria officinalis, it's important to achieve a balance in moisture. Water until the soil is evenly moist but not soggy, approximately 300 ml each session should suffice, allowing excess water to drain away. This ensures the roots receive adequate hydration without being submerged.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Bouncing-bet? ›

What should I do if my Bouncing-bet is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Bouncing-bet? ›

How to save an overwatered Bouncing-bet? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Bouncing-bet?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours

Saponaria officinalis ideally requires full sun to partial shade conditions. Optimal sunlight enables better photosynthesis, fostering healthy growth and a more prolific flowering period.

Optimal Light Duration ›

Light Intensity Regulation ›

Balancing Light and Shade ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Bouncing-bet?

Ideal Temperature: 59 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Saponaria officinalis is between 59°F and 77°F. This range provides a conducive environment for growth, where the plant can optimally photosynthesize and absorb nutrients. Stable temperatures within this range ensure that the plant's physiological processes remain uninterrupted and efficient.

What Soil is Best for Bouncing-bet?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Saponaria officinalis thrives in well-drained soil conditions, which prevent root rot and ensure the plant receives adequate oxygen and nutrients for robust growth. This plant benefits from soils enriched with organic matter, supporting healthy development and flowering by providing essential nutrients. Positioning in locations that receive plenty of sunlight enables optimal photosynthesis, translating to vigorous growth and vibrant flowers. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Bouncing-bet?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Saponaria officinalis, it's crucial to avoid over-fertilizing. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer, applying approximately half the recommended amount for the size of your plant. Over-fertilization can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Bouncing-bet?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by identifying and removing any discolored, diseased, or dead stems. This promotes better air circulation and can prevent disease spread. After the flowering period, cut back old and spent flower stems to encourage a fresh flush of growth and potential re-blooming. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Bouncing-bet plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring,Late spring,Summer

Start by filling seed trays with quality potting mix. Sprinkle seeds evenly over the surface and cover with a light layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist to promote germination.

Select healthy, disease-free stems and cut sections that are about 4-6 inches long. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a pot of moist sand or perlite.

For division, carefully dig up the parent plant, ensuring to minimize root damage. Gently separate the root clumps, ensuring each section has roots and shoots, and replant them promptly.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Bouncing-bet plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Saponaria officinalis needs repotting when the roots outgrow the container, typically signaled by roots emerging from drainage holes or stunted growth. These signs mean the plant requires more space to flourish.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, ideally one or two inches wider. The pot should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, promoting healthier roots and better growth for Saponaria officinalis.

Opt for well-draining garden soil mixed with some organic matter like compost or peat moss. This ensures adequate moisture retention while preventing water accumulation, crucial in supporting the plant's health.

Toxicity of Bouncing-bet

Is Bouncing-bet toxic to humans?

All parts of the bouncing-bet plant contain saponins, which can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested in large amounts. Notably, the seeds possess a higher concentration of these toxic compounds compared to the other parts of the plant. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid consuming any part of this plant. Excessive intake of bouncing-bet may result in symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.

Is Bouncing-bet toxic to cat?

Bouncing-bet is a plant that presents a toxic risk to felines. If consumed inadvertently, its roots, seeds, and sap may result in poisoning. Following ingestion, a cat may show a range of symptoms that indicate physical suffering. Cat parents must be attentive in keeping their feline friends away from bouncing-bet. Should accidental ingestion occur, swift veterinary intervention is essential. Timely treatment at an animal hospital can effectively mitigate the harmful effects and deliver the vital care needed to safeguard the health of the affected cat.

Is Bouncing-bet toxic to dog?

Bouncing-bet is identified as toxic to dogs. These animals may inadvertently consume various parts of the plant, including roots, seeds, or sap/juice, resulting in potential poisoning. When a dog ingests bouncing-bet, they could display symptoms such as gastrointestinal disturbances, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is imperative for dog owners to remain alert and restrict their pets from entering regions where bouncing-bet flourishes. Should ingestion be suspected, prompt veterinary attention is vital to safeguard the health and well-being of the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→