About
Saponaria ocymoides, tumbling Ted, is a vigorous, mat-forming, trailing alpine perennial to 8 cm with small, semi-evergreen, oval leaves and loose clusters of pink flowers 10 mm across in summer. A reliable and ornamental plant for a sunny, well-drained rock garden, wall or raised bed.
About the genus
Saponaria, the soapworts, are annuals or perennials with opposite, entire leaves and clusters of pink, purple or white flowers in summer. Popular and easy-care plants for sunny, well-drained borders and rock gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectNorth-facing, South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Rock garden, Patio and container plants
Native toEurope
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun
PruningCut back hard after flowering to maintain compact habit
PropagationPropagate by seed and softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free