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Description
Lunaria, commonly known as “money plant,” is a biennial plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and western Asia and has been introduced to North America, where it has become naturalized. Lunaria is known for its beautiful, silvery, oval-shaped seed pods that resemble coins, hence its common name. The plant produces lavender to pink flowers in the spring, which later develop into the seed pods that are often used in dried flower arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Lunaria |
Appearance
Lunaria grows up to 3 feet tall and has ovate to heart-shaped leaves that are toothed and hairy. The plant produces clusters of lavender to pink flowers in the spring, which are followed by silvery, flat, disc-shaped seed pods that are about 2 inches in diameter. These seed pods are often used in dried flower arrangements and last well into the winter.
Care Guide
Lunaria is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful biennial:Water: Lunaria prefers well-drained soil and needs moderate watering. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Lunaria does not require much fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Lunaria prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, add some sand or perlite to improve drainage.Sunlight: Lunaria thrives in full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it prefers partial shade to protect it from the intense heat.Hardiness Zones: Lunaria is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lunaria is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lunaria is native to Europe and western Asia and has been introduced to North America, where it has become naturalized. It grows in woodlands, meadows, and gardens and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lunaria an annual or perennial plant?
A: Lunaria is a biennial plant, which means that it completes its life cycle in two years.Q: Can Lunaria grow in containers?
A: Yes, Lunaria can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.Q: Is Lunaria deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Lunaria is deer-resistant.Q: When should I sow Lunaria seeds?
A: Lunaria seeds should be sown in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first frost.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:- Brassica nigra (Black Mustard)- Brassica rapa (Field Mustard)- Erysimum cheiri (Wallflower)- Matthiola incana (Stock)
References
– “Lunaria annua.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283239&isprofile=0&.- “Lunaria annua.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 25 May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8629/Lunaria-annua/Details.
