Fernleaf Peony Bloom Time and Moonflower Identification

A gardener has a young fernleaf peony (planted last June) and a moonflower, asking about bloom timing, peony leaf differences, and moonflower colors.

Fernleaf Peony (Paeonia tenuifolia)

• Blooms in 2–3 years after planting/disturbance.
• Finely cut foliage distinct from broader-leaved garden peonies.
• Many cultivars exist; leaf variation is normal.

Moonflower Confusion

• Moonflower usually = Datura (jimson weed, angel's trumpet): large, fragrant, night-blooming trumpets. Colors: white, purple, yellow.
• Moonvine = Ipomoea alba: perennial morning glory relative, white night blooms.

Advice

Be patient with the peony. For moonflower, Datura self-sows aggressively and is toxic—handle with care. Ipomoea alba is a beautiful vine for warm climates.