Lunaria spp.
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Central and southern Europe to western Asia
Overview
Lunaria spp. is a genus of two to three species of biennial and perennial herbs in the mustard family (Brassicaceae), native to central and southern Europe and western Asia. Plants grow 24-39 inches (60-100 cm) tall on erect, branching stems carrying coarsely toothed, heart-shaped leaves 3-6 inches (8-15 cm) long. Four-petaled flowers 0.5-0.75 inch (12-18 mm) across open in spring, ranging from violet-purple to white across the genus. The genus is identified by its fruit: a flat, rounded to elliptical silique 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wide whose outer walls fall away at maturity to leave a translucent, silvery papery membrane. L. annua is a biennial that flowers in its second year, while L. rediviva is a longer-lived perennial. Seeds germinate readily, and L. annua self-sows freely, naturalizing beyond planted areas and escaping in parts of North America. Plants grow in dappled shade to full sun in moist, well-drained soil and tolerate a range of garden conditions. Foliage can be browsed by slugs in wet springs, and the dried seed stalks scatter seed widely if left standing. The genus is grown for cut and dried arrangements as well as for borders, the persistent silvery septa lasting through winter.
Native Range
Native to central and southern Europe and western Asia, with L. rediviva extending into temperate woodland across the region. L. annua has naturalized widely in temperate North America, Australia, and New Zealand.Suggested Uses
Grown in cottage gardens, woodland edges, and mixed borders, where it combines with spring bulbs and shade perennials. The dried seed stalks are used in cut and everlasting arrangements. Plants naturalize in informal settings and along hedgerows.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 3'3"
Width/Spread1' - 1'6"
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in spring, from April to June depending on climate, lasting about four to six weeks. L. annua blooms in its second year after a first-year leaf rosette, while L. rediviva flowers each spring once established. The flattened seed pods develop through summer and persist into winter.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
violet-purple to whiteFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight