Soap Bark Tree (Quillaja Saponaria) is a perennial tree in the Quillajaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires moderate watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Quillaja saponaria is an evergreen tree native to central Chile, known for its soap-like bark containing saponins.

Soap Bark Tree

Soap Bark Tree

Quillaja Saponaria

Quillaja saponaria is an evergreen tree native to central Chile, known for its soap-like bark containing saponins.

Quick Facts

Type
tree
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Moderate
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:loamy, sandy, well-drained
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, medicinal source, erosion control

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Soap Bark Tree

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Soap Bark Tree
Soap Bark Tree detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Quillajaceae
Genus:Quillaja