BOUNCING BET
Saponaria officinalis
Plant Characteristics
Height:
12" - 30"
Stem:
Smooth, small branches
Leaves:
Elliptic, oppositely arranged, 3-4” long
Flower:
Fragrant pink to white, slightly notched petals
Bloom Time:
July to SeptemberBouncing bet spreads by seeds and has a tendency to form large patches. It can out compete native species and take over abandoned areas. It can be poisonous upon ingestion which makes it harmful to humans and animals.
Spot Spray
Herbicide is recommended as it has been the most effective.
Hand pulling can easily break roots and new plants can sprout from them.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Hog Peanut
This plant is a quick growing groundcover, forming 3 to 4 foot clumps as it grows. The fruit, also called “groundbeans,” is eagerly sought as food due to the taste and nutritional value. The hog peanuts can be eaten raw or cooked in soups or stews.
Wild Bergamot
This aromatic plant is often visited by bees and butterflies. Also known as “elk medicine,” the flowers and leaves can be boiled and used to treat abdominal pain. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked for tea and seasoning.
