Soapwort Herb ORGANIC Non-GMO Heirloom Seeds 2026

SOAPWORT (Saponaria officinalis), also known as Bouncing Bet (an old-timey descriptive of a washer woman), the name derives from the Latin for soap. It was brought over by European immigrants who used it as a soap substitute and it really works! Also used to be used in textile mills for its additional "fulling" effect on newly woven fabrics and still used today by museums for cleaning antique laces etc. Rich in saponins, simply crushing the leaves or boiling them in water produces a lather that cuts grease. Can also steep the roots in water for same. The plant grows to 30" and is covered in summer with dainty, intensely fragrant pink or white blossoms. A gorgeous addition to your rockery! Perennial in zones 4-10. 50 Seeds.

GROWING TIPS: Seeds are dormant - a survival mechanism of wild plants that ensures germination occurs only when conditions are favorable. Many such seeds require a period of "cold stratification" to break the dormancy. So, if sowing directly outdoors do so in the fall by sowing in flats or pots, covering 3x thickness with soil. Press firmly, water and place container in garden, digging it partially into the soil so the temperature of the pot is consistent with the soil temp. Cover with mulch and overwinter. When germination commences in Spring, remove the mulch. If sowing indoors, you must replicate the cold stratification by placing the flat or pot in your fridge (not freezer) for 1-12 months) until germination begins. Once established, it may become invasive if not managed - just use your shovel to periodically ring around it cutting the runners.

CherryGal has been providing Organic, non-GMO, Heirloom seeds to the home gardener since 1999. Seeds are either certified organic, or organically grown in my organic garden using sustainable organic practices. Seeds are not treated and are fresh to the year indicated in the title. Packets are small because we want each gardener to be able to afford a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers. By growing such a variety, you will be attracting pollinators and adding to the beauty and enjoyment of your backyard garden.