Money Plant, lunaria biennis, also known as Honesty, Silver Dollar Plant, or Moonwort

Type: Biennial (completes its life cycle in two years)

Height: 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm)

Leaves: Broad, heart-shaped, and slightly toothed, with a rough texture

Flowers: Four-petaled purple, violet, or sometimes white blossoms blooming in late spring of the second year

Seed Pods: Round, flat, translucent discs about the size of a quarter—these “silver dollars” are what the plant is most famous for

Fragrance: Light, sweet scent

Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects

🕰️ Interesting History and Fun Facts
Name Origin: “Lunaria” comes from the Latin word luna, meaning moon, due to the moon-like appearance of its seed pods.

Victorian Symbolism: In the language of flowers, Lunaria represented honesty, money, and sincerity—hence its common name “Honesty.”

Folklore: In medieval Europe, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.

Dried Arrangements: The plant’s silvery seed pods are often used in floral decorations and crafts.

Historic Gardens: Lunaria biennis was a staple in cottage gardens in the 17th and 18th centuries due to its beauty and usefulness.

🌱 How to Grow Money Plant (Lunaria biennis) from Seed
📦 Materials Needed
Lunaria biennis seeds

Seed trays or pots

Well-draining potting mix

Spray bottle or watering can

Garden bed or large outdoor container

Labels and markers (optional)

Cold frame or plastic cover (optional for early spring sowing)

🌡️ Ideal Conditions
Germination Temperature: 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C)

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline

🔧 Step-by-Step Instructions
Timing:
Sow seeds in late spring or summer of the first year. The plant will form a leafy rosette in year one and flower in year two.

Seed Preparation:
No special stratification is needed, but soaking seeds in warm water for 6–12 hours can speed up germination.

Sowing Indoors:

Fill trays with seed-starting mix.

Plant seeds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep.

Lightly water using a spray bottle.

Cover with a humidity dome or plastic wrap until germinated.

Place in a warm, bright location out of direct sun.

Germination:
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under optimal conditions.

Transplanting:
Once seedlings have two true leaves and are sturdy enough to handle, transplant to individual pots or directly into the garden.

Spacing:
Plant 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow for bushy growth and airflow.

Watering:
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Water at the base to avoid fungal disease.

Maintenance:

Mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.

Deadhead flowers if you don’t want self-seeding.

Staking may be needed for tall plants in windy areas.

🌾 Harvesting
When to Harvest:
Harvest seed pods in late summer to early fall when they’ve turned brown and papery.

How to Harvest:

Cut stems and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.

Once fully dry, gently rub off the outer seed pod layers to reveal the shiny inner discs.

Store seeds in a cool, dry place in a labeled envelope.

💊 Medicinal Uses and Benefits
Although Lunaria biennis is primarily ornamental, it has some historical and folk medicinal uses:

🧪 Traditional Medicinal Uses
Diuretic: The plant has been used in traditional remedies to support urinary health.

Anti-inflammatory: Folk medicine practitioners believed the crushed leaves could reduce swelling and inflammation.

Antibacterial: Some compounds in the seeds and leaves are believed to have mild antibacterial properties.

⚠️ Caution: Medicinal use is limited and not widely studied. Always consult a professional before using any plant for medicinal purposes.

🎯 Other Uses
Decorative: The seed pods are a favorite in dried arrangements and wreaths due to their shiny, coin-like appearance.

Pollinator Friendly: A great choice for pollinator gardens—supports bees and butterflies.

Self-seeding: Once established, Lunaria often reseeds itself, making it a low-maintenance perennial-style biennial in cottage gardens.

***This information is not intended to be used as a diagnosis.  Caution should be exercised when considering any medicinal use, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.