Annual honesty is native to the Balkans and southwest Asia. It has spread through
North America, as well as Europe and some other parts of Asia.
Identification: Plants are 2-3′ (60-91 cm) in height, with hairy stems. Leaves are
heart-shaped and serrated. Flowers are pink, magenta, or purple, about an inch across, with four petals each.
The common name "honesty" dates back to the 16th century, and may be a reference to the
translucent seed pods. It is these seed pods that are the most striking identifying feature—if you
encounter them in the fall, that is. The round pods really do look silvery.
Photo by Rosenzweig, at Löwenstein, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.