About
Quillaja saponaria, the quillai or soapbark tree, is an evergreen tree or large shrub from Chile producing oval, leathery, glossy leaves and small, white flowers. The bark contains saponins used commercially as a natural soap. An ornamental and useful plant for a frost-free, sunny, well-drained garden.
About the genus
Quillaja are evergreen trees and shrubs from South America producing glossy, leathery leaves and small, white flowers. The bark of Q. saponaria is the source of natural saponin. Grown in frost-free, sunny, well-drained gardens.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.