How to Grow Silver Dollar
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Silver Dollar
Lunaria annua
flowerSilver Dollar is a biennial ornamental plant prized for its distinctive translucent, silvery seed pods that resemble coins. The plant produces delicate purple, pink, or white flowers in spring, followed by the spectacular papery seed pods used in dried flower arrangements. It's an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant that self-seeds readily in gardens.
When should you plant Silver Dollar in your zone?
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Example Silver Dollar timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Silver Dollar
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Silver Dollar blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Silver Dollar dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in cooler climates (zones 4-7)
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Get my Silver Dollar timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
1-2 weeksSeeds sprout with emergence of cotyledons and first true leaves
Keep soil moist but not soggy. Provide cool conditions (60-70°F). Germination occurs in 7-14 days.
Seedling to Rosette (Year 1)
4-6 monthsPlant develops basal rosette of oval, heart-shaped leaves with wavy margins
Thin seedlings to appropriate spacing. Water regularly. No fertilizer needed if soil is decent. Plant becomes dormant in winter.
Flowering (Year 2)
4-6 weeksTall flower stalks emerge with clusters of delicate 4-petaled flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white
Flowers appear in spring (April-May). Support tall stems with stakes if needed. Allow some flowers to be pollinated for seed pods.
Seed Pod Development
6-8 weeksAfter flowering, distinctive flat, round seed pods develop with a papery translucent membrane (the 'silver dollar')
Allow pods to fully mature and dry on the plant. Do not remove until completely dry and papery. Remove outer pod layer to reveal silvery septum.
Harvest & Drying
2-4 weeksMature, brittle pods are collected for dried arrangements or allowed to self-seed
Cut stems when pods are completely brown and papery. Hang bundles to dry further. Remove seeds if preventing unwanted self-seeding.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Row covers, netting, hand-picking caterpillars, or neem oil spray
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Row covers when young, insecticidal soap, or diatomaceous earth
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and
Copper barriers, hand-picking at night, beer traps, or slug pellets
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, sulfur spray, or fungicide
Uses
Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftThe silvery seed pods are prized in floral design and dried arrangements, lasting indefinitely when kept dry. They add an elegant, distinctive element to bouquets, wreaths, and home décor. [source]
Edible Seeds and Sprouts
CulinaryThe seeds are edible with a slightly peppery flavor similar to radish sprouts. Young seedlings can be eaten in salads, or seeds can be sprouted for microgreens. [source]
Natural Home Decoration
HouseholdDried seed pods can be painted, dyed, or left natural for wreaths, centerpieces, and holiday decorations. The translucent quality allows light to pass through beautifully. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe spring flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Allowing the plant to self-seed provides wildlife habitat and food sources. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn some traditional medicine systems, Lunaria has been used for respiratory support and as a mild diuretic, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Wait until seed pods are completely dry and papery (late summer to fall of year 2). Cut entire stem clusters and hang upside down in a dry location for 2-4 weeks. Gently remove the outer seed coat by rubbing to reveal the silvery translucent membrane inside. The pods are perfect for dried arrangements and will last years when kept dry. Allow some pods to remain on the plant for self-seeding next season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Silver Dollar' refers to the coin-like appearance of the silvery seed pods, while 'Honesty' (another common name) comes from the transparent, honest-looking interior of the pods.
- 🌱 Silver Dollar is biennial, meaning it takes two years to complete its life cycle—the first year it grows roots and leaves, the second year it flowers and produces seeds.
- 🌱 The plant self-seeds prolifically, often volunteering in gardens year after year. Some gardeners consider it a 'friendly volunteer' while others manage it to prevent overtaking the garden.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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