Lunaria

Lunaria (Lunaria annua) – Heirloom ‘Honesty’ Plant with Shimmering Silver Seed Pods

Botanical Name: Lunaria annua
Common Names: Honesty, Money Plant, Silver Dollar Plant
Biennial | Heirloom | Edible & Ornamental | Grown from Seed

Lunaria, often called Honesty or the Silver Dollar plant, is a traditional cottage garden favourite, grown for its charming spring flowers and striking translucent seed pods that resemble silver coins. A biennial, it forms leafy rosettes in the first year and bursts into bloom in the second, producing masses of purple or white blossoms, followed by decorative silvery discs. Easy to grow from seed and a wonderful addition to borders, wildflower patches, or dried flower arrangements, Lunaria thrives in the Irish climate with minimal fuss.
? Horticultural Highlights:

Growth Habit: Biennial; foliage in year one, flowers and seed pods in year two

Height: 60–90 cm tall when in bloom

Flowers: Purple or white four-petalled blooms in spring to early summer

Seed Pods: Flat, round, translucent discs used in dried floral crafts

Edibility: Young leaves are edible in moderation (mild mustardy taste)

Pollinators: Excellent nectar source for bees and butterflies

? Growing Instructions (Seed Propagation – Suited to Irish Conditions):

Sowing Time:

    Direct sow outdoors: Late summer (July–August) or early spring (March–April)

    Indoor sowing: Early spring for transplanting

Germination: 10–14 days at 15–20°C

Spacing: Thin to 25–30 cm apart

Soil: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil

Light: Prefers partial shade but tolerates full sun in cooler areas

Care: Low maintenance; self-seeds easily for naturalised drifts

Harvesting: Collect seed pods once fully dry on the plant for craft use or reseeding

? Historical Background:

Lunaria has graced European cottage gardens for centuries, with its name derived from the Latin luna, meaning “moon,” in reference to its glowing, silvery seed pods. In Irish folklore and Victorian floriography, it symbolised honesty, sincerity, and prosperity. It was traditionally grown near homes and pathways, partly for its ornamental beauty and partly for its reputed ability to bring good luck. It remains a timeless favourite for wildflower borders, cut flower enthusiasts, and gardeners who appreciate its low-effort charm.