Lunaria rediviva
perennial honesty
Heart shaped leaves which can grow up to 8cm (3in) long, clothe the upright stems of this clump-forming perennial, and from late spring, these stems are topped by loose clusters of fragrant, lilac-white flowers.
Once the flowers of of Lunaria rediviva have faded, they are followed by flattened seed pods, which as they age resemble big, papery coins. If undisturbed, these will stay on the plant well into winter providing a long season of interest. Alternatively, cut them and add them to dried arrangements.
How to care for Lunaria rediviva:
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 encourage prolonged 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. Perennial honesty may need staking, particularly in more exposed positions.
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged 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. Perennial honesty 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.
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:
0.3m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
