soap plant
Chlorogalum pomeridianum
USDA zones6 to 10
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size2 to 3 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- White
- Foliage color
- Leaves up to about 28 inches long.
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Soap plant (Chlorogalum pomeridianum) is a perennial for borders, containers, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 6, or down to -10°F (-23°C). This plant likes full or part sun and dry, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. White star-like flowers open toward evening or on cloudy days, and bees and butterflies visit them. Deer usually look elsewhere for a meal. The bulbs once made a lather for cleaning clothing and baskets.
Pairs well with Ookow, Bluff lettuce, Idaho fescue, and Tolmie star-tulip.
Native range
CA and OR.