Soapwort belongs to the Caryophyllaceae (Carnation) family originating from central and southern Europe. It grows well in temperate to cool climates, hardy – though requires good fertile soil and adequate summer watering to thrive. Dies back over winter.

Bruised and agitated with water it raises a lather like soap, which washes greasy spots out of clothes.
As both the common and botanical names suggest, the boiled leaves and root of this herb may be used as a source of a somewhat astringent lather suitable for cleaning woollen fabrics. It is a creeping plant with smooth dark green leaves and decorative pink or whitish flowers .