Common Soapwort

The nectar of the flowers attracts butterflies and moths, including the butterflies Pontia protodice (Checkered White) and Euptoieta claudia (Variegated Fritillary). Considering the abundance of the flowers, these insect visitors are relatively few. Similarly, the seeds appear to be of little use by birds as a food source. The bitter-tasting foliage is high in saponins and toxic to mammalian herbivores. These saponins can cause gastrointestinal irritation and the breakdown of red blood cells. Therefore, the foliage is rarely eaten by such animals. The overall value of Soapwort to wildlife is low.