Peony (Paeonia): Exquisite, Long-Lived Spring Blooms

Peony flowers are the epitome of spring elegance: large, showy, silky, single or double, in colors from white and pale cream through pink, red, and even pure yellow. Individual blossoms reach 6–8 in. across; many are fragrant. Bloom spans late spring to early summer; for the longest display, plant early, midseason, and late varieties. The plant forms a shrubby 2–4 ft. clump of lush, dark green foliage with divided leaflets, often turning golden yellow in autumn before dying back.

Types and Climate Needs

The bush-form ("herbaceous") peonies described here are cultivars of P. lactiflora; hundreds exist. Most need winter chill to bloom well. In milder climates, Japanese cultivars perform better in warm-winter areas.

Planting for Decades of Bloom

Peonies are extremely long-lived. Choose a permanent site where they won't compete with other plants. Provide rich, well-drained, neutral to slightly acid soil. Plant tubers in fall: 2 in. deep in coldest zones, 1 in. deep in warmer areas. Don't plant too deeply—peonies won't bloom if buried too deep. Mulch the first year after the ground freezes. Plants may not bloom the first year.

Quick Facts

• Zones 1–11, 14–16, 32–45
• Full sun; partial shade in hot-summer climates
• Regular watering

Plant peonies once, and enjoy generations of breathtaking spring flowers.