Lunaria annua 'Alba' – Graceful Honesty with white flowers

Lunaria annua 'Alba', also known as white Honesty, is an enchanting garden plant especially beloved for its elegant white flowers and decorative, silvery seed pods. Ideal for both cottage gardens and modern borders, it is often used in naturalistic plantings and wildlife gardens. Thanks to its long flowering period and beloved nectar source, Lunaria annua 'Alba' is also bee- and butterfly-friendly. A perfect combination of ornamental value, biodiversity, and natural charm.

Characteristics of Lunaria annua 'Alba'

Lunaria annua belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is a biennial plant, meaning it primarily produces foliage in the first year and flowers and seeds in the second. The cultivar 'Alba' is distinguished by its pure white flower clusters instead of the usual purple. This creates a refined, tranquil appearance that fits beautifully in shady borders, among perennials, and in woodland gardens.

The plant typically reaches a height of 60 to 90 cm and forms sturdy stems with bright green leaves. After flowering, Lunaria annua 'Alba' develops its familiar seed pods: flat, round discs with a pearly sheen. Dried, they remain beautiful for months to years and are often used in bouquets, flower arrangements, and interior decorations.

Growth & Location

Lunaria annua 'Alba' is an easy garden plant that requires little care. It thrives in most soil types and can be placed in both partial shade and sun, although flowering is best in light shade with plenty of moisture.

Ideal growing conditions:

• Part shade to light sun

• Well-drained, humus-rich soil

• Moderately moist, not too dry

• Suitable for borders, forest edges and natural gardens.

Once sown, Lunaria often self-seeds. This makes the plant ideal for gardens that can naturalize and maintain a natural character. Transplanting the seedlings also allows you to fill new spaces without repurchasing seeds – sustainable horticulture at its finest.

Flowering and decorative use

From April to June, Lunaria annua 'Alba' displays its radiant white flowers. These flowers exude a light, pleasant fragrance and are an important source of nectar for bees, bumblebees, and butterflies early in the season. Anyone looking to promote biodiversity in their garden will find this plant a reliable choice.

After flowering, the plant transforms into a real eye-catcher with its transparent, silvery seeds. These are not only visually appealing on the plant itself but also make a beautiful addition to dried bouquets. The seed pods retain their color and texture for a long time, making them a favorite among florists and creative enthusiasts.

Applications in the garden

Lunaria annua 'Alba' is versatile and combines effortlessly with classic perennials, such as ferns, hostas, chamomile, and aquilegia. Combined with soft hues, white Honesty creates a romantic atmosphere while bringing peace and balance to modern gardens.

Where Lunaria annua 'Alba' really comes into its own:

✔ Shady borders and woodland gardens
✔ Natural planting areas
✔ Pick-your-own gardens and dried flower borders
✔ Romantic cottage gardens
✔ Biodiversity-stimulating planting

Why choose Lunaria annua 'Alba'?

• Beautiful white spring bloom

• Iconic, decorative seed pods

• Biennial but rich in self-sowing

• Bee and butterfly friendly

• Low maintenance, high ornamental value

Anyone who wants to fill their garden with tranquility, light, and natural elegance will find Lunaria annua 'Alba' to be a plant that continues to surprise year after year. This Honesty is an indispensable addition for both nature lovers and creative flower arrangers.