Soapwort

A perennial from Europe, growing 60cm high, spreading more. As well as being a good ground cover plant (spreading vigorously), the leaves and roots contain saponins and can be used as soap sources: merely soak leaves/stems in warm/hot water, then use the soapy water to wash clothes etc.

The fragrant flowers furnish dyes, whilst bees and butterflies (and hummingbird moths!) feed on the nectar; the roots and flowering plant are also used medicinally. Likes a moist position in sun or part shade.