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Lunaria annua var. albiflora

white honesty

RHS award of garden merit Perfect for pollinators
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White flowers are followed by translucent, flattened seed heads that remain on the plant well into autumn, or if picked and dried, make excellent additions to dried flower arrangements. Lunaria f. albiflora is a charming biennial that will happily self-seed and whose flowers are highly-attractive to butterflies and bees, making it perfect for naturalising in a wild garden, meadow, or at a woodland edge.

How to care for Lunaria annua var. albiflora:

Lunaria thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight, preferring rich, well-draining soil with consistent moisture. These plants prefer slightly alkaline to neutral soils and benefit from light mulching to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming, and allow some seed pods to mature if you want the plant to self-seed for the next season, or for use in dried flower arrangements.

Pinching out the tips as they grow will encourage bushier growth. Lunaria may need staking, particularly in more exposed positions.

Sowing instructions:

Sow seeds indoors in spring (March to May) or in autumn (September to October). Sow on the surface of moist seed compost and lightly press them in—do not cover, as they need light to germinate. Keep at a temperature of around 15-20°C (59-68°F) and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Germination may take 2-4 weeks.

Once seedlings are large enough to handle, pot them on individually and grow on in cooler conditions. Harden off before planting out in a partially shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil. Autumn-sown plants may benefit from protection in their first winter.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
1m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

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Seed Packets (only)£2.99
Named Day Delivery£10.99

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