Lunaria annua Alba | White Honesty | Money Plant

Lunaria annua 'Alba' | White Honesty | Money Plant

Elegant, timeless, and versatile — Lunaria annua 'Alba' is the pure white-flowering form of the beloved money plant, grown primarily for its distinctive seedpods. This easy-to-grow biennial offers charming starry white blooms in spring, followed by flat, translucent seed discs that are perfect for both fresh and dried arrangements.

Highly valued by floral designers and gardeners alike, its ethereal seedpods shimmer like silver coins and last beautifully in wreaths, bouquets, and decor throughout autumn and winter.

Key Features

• Plant type: Biennial (self-seeding)
• Flower color: White
• Height: Up to 90 cm
• Spread: 30 cm
• Flowering period: May to August
• Position: Full sun or partial shade
• Uses: Dried arrangements, autumn decor, cut flower gardens
• Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained
• Special trait: Tolerates poor soil and shade

Though the flowers are delicate and short-lived, the real treasure lies in the seedpods — each plant can produce 20–30 stems heavily laden with flat, coin-like seed cases. These can be harvested fresh while green or left to mature for a silvery, papery finish.

Sowing Instructions

• Direct sowing: Best sown directly in autumn or early spring in 3 mm deep drills spaced 30 cm apart. Keep soil moist until germination and thin seedlings to 15 cm.
• Indoor sowing: Sow onto loam-based compost; lightly cover with a thin layer of grit. Maintain warmth at 18°C for 6–8 weeks, then cold stratify at 5°C for another 6–8 weeks. Return to warmth to trigger germination. Repeat warm–cold cycle if needed.
• Note: Germination can be slow and erratic — patience is key.

Growing Notes

• Thrives in less-than-perfect spots — including part shade and poor soil
• Avoid excessive feeding or manure
• Minimal maintenance once established

Harvesting & Drying

• Harvest seedheads in late summer to autumn when pods are mature and paper-like
• Peel off the green outer layer to reveal luminous, silvery discs
• To dry: Hang stems upside down in a warm, dark place for 2–3 weeks

Dried seedpods are fragile — handle with care once dried.