Saponaria is a genus in the carnation family, Caryophyllaceae, native to Europe and Asia. The latin name means soapy sap, which refers to the saponin content of the sap, which foams like soap. At least Saponaria ocymoides has been used to make liquid soap by soaking the leaves in water. Most species have white or pink flowers. They grow in different conditions, some are good rock garden plants that need dry, sun baked soil, while others are taller and prefer moist soil.