Quillajaceae
Soapbark Tree: Aromatic Plant
Quillaja saponaria
It is an extremely drought-resistant tree once established. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating arid conditions.
Every 10 days
Direct sun
-5° - 35°C
30% - 60%
Categories
What is Soapbark Tree?
Soapbark Tree (Quillaja saponaria) is a medium-care plant from the Quillajaceae family. Quillaja saponaria, commonly known as the Soapbark Tree, is an evergreen tree native to central Chile. It is famous for its bark, which contains saponins—substances that create foam when in contact with water. It features leathery, bright green leaves and star-shaped white flowers that are highly at...
Soapbark Tree grows up to 20.0m, spread of 600cm, watering every 10 days, -5°C – 35°C, 30–60% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for Soapbark Tree?
TLDR: Soapbark Tree needs Direct sun, watering every 10 days, and temperatures between -5-35°C with 30-60% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Soapbark Tree?
Water deeply during the first two summers; afterwards, it can survive on rainfall alone.
How Much Light Does Soapbark Tree Need?
Requires direct sun exposure for optimal growth and healthy flowering.
What Is the Best Soil for Soapbark Tree?
Adapts to poor and stony soils, but excellent drainage is crucial.
What Pot Should You Use for Soapbark Tree?
Not recommended for long-term container growth due to its deep root system; plant directly in the ground.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 180 days
What Is Soapbark Tree and Where Does It Come From?
Quillaja saponaria, commonly known as the Soapbark Tree, is an evergreen tree native to central Chile. It is famous for its bark, which contains saponins—substances that create foam when in contact with water. It features leathery, bright green leaves and star-shaped white flowers that are highly attractive to bees.
How to Propagate Soapbark Tree?
Seed propagation
- Cold stratification can improve germination rates.
- 1 Collection
Collect seeds from mature capsules when they begin to open.
- 2 Sowing
Sow in a light, sandy substrate, barely covering the seed.
- 3 Initial watering
Maintain constant moisture without waterlogging until seedlings emerge.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Soapbark Tree Grow?
TLDR: Soapbark Tree can reach up to 20.0m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
20.0m
Spread
6.0m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Aromatic
Pleasant fragrance
Medicinal Uses
- Expectorant
- Treatment of skin conditions
- Use in hair cosmetics
Culinary Uses
- Used industrially as a foaming additive in beverages
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents the resilience of the Chilean Mediterranean ecosystem and cleanliness.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
