Knowledgebase

Is Soapwort invasive #907414

Asked June 26, 2025, 4:53 PM EDT

Also known as Saponaria officinalis or Wild Sweet William. Seems to self seed profusely. Should I get rid of it in my garden?

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

The non-native Saponaria officinalis does seed around, yes, and is found in most Maryland counties, but it is not flagged as invasive since it's not taking over habitat. You can remove it if you wish (or at least keep them dead-headed to remove seed), but it's prevalent enough that it may not matter much, especially if there are already feral populations near you in natural areas.

Miri
Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 27, 2025, 9:26 AM EDT

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