Honesty. Pretty violet-blue flowers on purple-flushed stems from April to May, followed by decorative purple-tinged seed heads that can be used in dried flower arrangements. Height 80cm. Full sun/partial shade. Self sowing biennial.
Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ is a standout biennial known for its striking violet-blue flowers and silver seed pods, offering year-round interest. Whether grown from seed or planted as established potted plants, this versatile beauty is ideal for borders, cottage gardens, or even containers. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure success with Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue.’
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring Planting: Plant established potted Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ in spring when the soil is warming. This allows plants to settle in and flourish during the active growing season.
Autumn Planting: For a head start on next year’s blooms, plant in early autumn. The plants will establish their roots before going dormant over winter, resulting in strong spring growth.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location with at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil is ideal. If planting in the ground, enrich the soil with organic matter like compost. For pots, use a high-quality multipurpose compost or a soil-based compost mix with added grit for good drainage.
Planting Instructions for Potted Plants
Prepare the Site or Pot:
For garden planting, loosen the soil and mix in compost to improve drainage and fertility.
For containers, ensure the pot has drainage holes and add a layer of gravel or broken pottery to prevent waterlogging.
Planting:
Gently remove the Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ from its pot, taking care not to damage the roots.
In the garden, dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball. Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
In pots, position the plant in the centre of the container and backfill with compost, firming gently to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help roots establish. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first few weeks.
Watering Requirements
Active Growth: Water Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ regularly during dry periods, especially for potted plants, as container soil can dry out faster. Allow the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Dormant Period: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy. Potted plants may need occasional watering to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry.
Feeding
Spring Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser in early spring to promote vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.
Mid-Season Boost: For prolonged flowering and strong seed pod development, feed again mid-season. Use a general-purpose fertiliser for plants in the garden or pots.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage continued flowering and prevent uncontrolled self-seeding.
Seed Pods: If you enjoy the decorative silver pods of Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue,’ allow some flowers to go to seed. These pods are excellent for dried arrangements or garden interest.
End-of-Season Pruning: Once flowering has finished and the seed pods have been harvested or naturally dispersed, cut back the stems to tidy up the plant.
Mulching and Winter Care
In the Garden: Apply mulch around the base of your Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ in spring to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. In autumn, add a thicker layer to protect roots from frost.
In Containers: Move potted plants to a sheltered spot during harsh winters or wrap the pot in horticultural fleece to protect the roots from freezing.
Container Care
For potted Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue,’ refresh the top layer of compost annually to maintain fertility. Repot every 2-3 years if the plant outgrows its container, using fresh compost to support healthy growth.
Final Tips
Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ is an adaptable, low-maintenance plant that thrives in both gardens and containers. By providing the right care, including proper watering, feeding, and site selection, you’ll enjoy its stunning violet-blue blooms and shimmering seed pods year after year. Add Lunaria annua ‘Corfu Blue’ to your outdoor space for a touch of elegance and charm that captivates in every season!
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