Tree peony - Paeonia suffruticosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Tree peony

Also known as: Chinese tree peonies, Moutan, Chinese Moutan Peony

The tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa) is a flowering shrub that originated in China. Contrary to its name, it doesn't resemble a tall tree, but rather a growing shrub or bush. The tree peony is very important in Chinese literature, culture, and art, and has been depicted in many valuable paintings.

Scientific classification

Species

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa)

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Late summer, Early fall

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

15 cm to 30 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Pink, Gold

Flower Color

Gray, Brown

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Images of Tree peony

Distribution of Tree peony

Distribution Map

Tree peony is indigenous to East Asia, thriving across temperate regions. While native to parts of East Asia, it has been widely introduced into gardens and landscapes around the world. The species is cultivated globally, transcending its original range to grace multiple continents with its admired floral display.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Cliffs, scrub in mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Happy marriage, Prosperity Bashfulness

Interesting Facts

Paeonia suffruticosa, often referred to as 'Queen of Flowers', has always been an important part of Chinese culture. It has been a national flower for a while, during the Qing Dynasty in the 17th century. Paeonia suffruticosa is a symbol of honor, prosperity, and love.

Name Story

Moutan peony||Tree peony: Unlike other peonies that are herbaceous plants, Paeonia suffruticosa is a bush or a small tree, hence its common name Tree peony. The other common name tree peony is a result of transliteration of the Chinese word 'mǔdān', which is the common name for Paeonia suffruticosa in China.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Toxicity

Tree peony possesses mild toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs, primarily through ingestion of its stem, root, and flower. Paeonol present in these parts can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and skin irritation in humans, as well as vomiting and diarrhea in pets. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if pets show symptoms after contact with tree peony.

Identify toxic plants in your garden

Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for humans and pets.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Tree peony

Biternate, deeply dissected leaves with 3-5 lobes and distinctive pale green and blue-green coloring.

Terminal, fragrant flowers in rose, pink, white, and yellow shades, up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide.

Slender cane-like stem branching into numerous twigs, 2 to 5 feet (60 to 150 cm) in length.

Fruit consists of 2-8 dry leathery follicles, initially green and fleshy, maturing to brown, 1.5-3 inches (4-7.6 cm) long.

75-100 violet-red flowers during peak season, each several inches across, on slender, brittle stems.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Tree peony

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tree peony, native to the dry plateaus of China, exhibits drought tolerance and requires watering every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry. Thriving in temperate climates, it benefits from rainwater during its growing season, aligning with its moderate water needs.

Fertilize: For optimal growth of tree peony, use balanced NPK fertilizers in early spring and post-blooming as per manufacturer guidelines. Avoid over-fertilization; compost is a suitable organic alternative. Adjust frequency based on tree peony's life cycle and incorporate fertilizer gently to prevent root burn, enhancing overall health and flowering.

Pruning: Tree peony is a deciduous shrub with large blooms and woody stems. Prune in early spring to remove dead wood and improve air circulation. Regularly thinning branches encourages growth and flowering, while minimal maintenance prevents stress on the plant.

Propagation: Tree peony can be propagated through division or grafting, with division recommended from dormant plants containing 3-5 buds. Grafting onto herbaceous rootstocks boosts vigor. Seeds require stratification for better germination, but patience is needed, as seedlings may take years to flower. Proper handling of roots and buds is essential.

Repotting: Tree peony requires excellent drainage in pots to thrive, ensuring that excess water does not accumulate, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Proper drainage is crucial for the healthy growth of this plant.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Tree peony

Distribution of Tree peony

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Tree peony

Care Guide for Tree peony

PEOPLE ALSO ASK

Common Pests & Diseases