Overview

Lunaria rediviva is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Lunaria, part of the Brassicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Lunaria rediviva grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal and cottage and informal garden. It is native to Europe.

About

Lunaria rediviva is a perennial herb that can reach heights of up to 90 cm. It features toothed, heart-shaped leaves that are triangular in shape. From spring to early summer, this plant produces clusters of fragrant flowers that measure approximately 2.5 cm across and are lilac-white in color. After flowering, it develops elliptical seedheads that are suitable for drying.

About the genus

Lunaria includes annuals, biennials, and perennials. The plants feature triangular-ovate foliage and produce leafy racemes adorned with four-petaled blooms during late spring and early summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lunaria

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Lunaria rediviva size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native to
Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lunaria rediviva

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
Pruning
Transluscent seed pods are excellent for dried flower arrangements
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring or divide in spring
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to club root, white blister and a virus

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lunaria rediviva?

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Lunaria rediviva?

Lunaria rediviva prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Lunaria rediviva need?

Lunaria rediviva is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Lunaria rediviva?

Transluscent seed pods are excellent for dried flower arrangements.

How big does Lunaria rediviva grow?

Lunaria rediviva reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Lunaria rediviva hardy in the UK?

Lunaria rediviva has a UK hardiness rating of H7.

How do I propagate Lunaria rediviva?

Propagate by seed in spring or divide in spring.