Peony (Paeonia spp.)


Peony Plant Features

Every spring peonies provide armloads of super fragrant, colorful blooms that are ideal for fresh cut arrangements. This sun-loving perennial is so dependable it will live for decades with a minimum of attention from you. The shrub-like plants grow 2 to 3 feet tall with pretty divided foliage that looks great in the garden even when the plants are not in bloom. Peony flower colors include coral, pink, red, white, yellow, and bi-color in both single and double flowering forms. Bloom times vary a little by variety and, with careful planning, you can enjoy peony flowers from early spring through early summer. Peonies are also deer and rabbit resistant. Hardy from zones 3-8.

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Peony Growing Instructions

Peonies grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. Set the plants into the ground at the same depth they were growing in the pot. If planted too deeply peonies may not bloom. The "eyes" (where new growth emerges) should be no deeper than 2 inches under the soil. Peonies have a tendency to topple after a heavy storm so use a peony ring to stake your plants early in the season. Remove faded flowers as they appear to keep the plant looking tidy and clip away dead foliage after the first freeze blackens the leaves. 

Peony is not recommended for human or animal consumption.
  • Water

    Medium water needs

  • Light

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Pink

    Red

    White

    Yellow

  • Special Features

    Attracts hummingbirds

    Deer/rabbit resistant

    Fragrant flowers/foliage

    Super-easy to grow


Complement your Peony

Clematis
In a country style garden, Peony backed up by an arbor clad in Clematis is a classic combination.

Baptisia
Baptisia is about the same size and shape as Peony and blooms around the same time making it a good partner.

Iris
Bearded Iris and Peony make an outstanding pair in the spring garden.


Our favorite varieties

Dr. Alexander Fleming Peony

Dr. Alexander Fleming Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Dr. Alexander Fleming'

This spring-blooming flower shows off double pink blossoms imbued with a wonderful, rich fragrance -- so be sure to plant this beauty where you'll be able to get up close and enjoy its sweet scent. It grows 30 inches tall and wide. Zones 3-8

Sarah Bernhardt Peony

Sarah Bernhardt Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt'

Sarah Bernhardt is one of the most beautiful varieties, showing off huge, fragrant pink flowers in late spring. It grows 36 inches tall and wide. Zones 3-8

Annemieke Peony

Annemieke Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Annemieke'

Annemieke is a fragrant variety with medium-pink flowers in spring. This sun-loving perennial is easy to grow and makes a wonderful cut flower. It grows 30 inches tall and wide.

Duchesse de Nemours Peony

Duchesse de Nemours Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Duchesse de Nemours'

Easy to grow and exceptionally beautiful, Duchesse de Nemours offers fragrant, pure white flowers in spring. It grows 36 inches tall and wide. Zones 3-8