How to Grow and Care for Peony

Peony, also known as Chinese peony, Common garden peony, Fragrant peony, White peony

Peony require well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight to thrive. Special care points include ensuring adequate spacing to promote air circulation, which is key to preventing fungal diseases. Winter protection is needed in colder climates, as peony is susceptible to frost damage. While peony isn't overly challenging to grow, attention must be given to soil conditions, spacing, and winter care.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

In This Article

Planting and Growing Peony

Toughness	High
Care Level	Medium
Care Difficulty	Moderate
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-7.5
Planting Time	Spring
Hardiness Zones	4-10

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Varieties of Peony

Peony 'Blaze'

A quick grower and very early bloomer, the peony 'Blaze' is one of the earliest cultivars in its series to bloom. It is a seedling of the Bravura. With its vivid red color, the peony 'Blaze' is named for its showy flowers. It is also a low-maintenance peony cultivar that is considered pest- and animal-free and well suited to be cut for flower arrangements. It provides an attractive winter interest.

Peony 'Pink Parfait'

Peony 'Festiva Maxima'

Peony 'Festiva Maxima' was bred and introduced in 1851 by the famous French horticulturalist Auguste Miellez. It has remained a highly popular cultivar for over 150 years, and has won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Peony 'Festiva Maxima' blooms generously and has a sweet fragrance. The strong stalks ensure the flowers will remain sturdy and beautiful even in bad weather.

Peony 'Jan van Leeuwen'

Peony 'Jan van Leeuwen' delights the eye with bowl-shaped satin-white flowers with yellow centers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Foliage is dark green and dense. This is a cultivar of Chinese peony, named after the originator Jan van Leeuwen in 1928. This lovely cultivar is sought after and treasured by peony enthusiasts.

Peony 'Sword Dance'

Peony 'Sword Dance' is a stunning peony variety known for its large, fragrant, and white blooms. Its impressive ornamental value in gardens and floral arrangements makes it a popular choice among florists.

Common Pests & Diseases

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More General Info About Peony

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Peony exhibits a lush display anchored by a clump of deep green leaves that offer a striking backdrop to its large, typically fragrant flowers. These blossoms, often spanning 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter, emerge in spring, showcasing a range of colors from delicate pinks to rich, cream-hued petals, sometimes with a dash of maroon at their bases. The plant thrives with stems reaching up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height, supporting the substantial flower heads that entice admirers with their bold presence. Below ground, robust rhizomes grant the perennial resilience and longevity.