[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Plant Selector Guide
Paeonia officinalis (Common Peony)

Main Perennial Plant Selector List | Plant Word Search

Plant Type: Perennial
Uses: Border, Wildflower/Meadow, Cutting Bed
Propagation: Division
Habit: Upright, Spreading
Light: Full Sun, Part Shade
Flower Color: Various
Blooms: Spring, Summer
Width: 3 ft.
Height: 2.5 - 3.5 ft.
Fertility: Rich
Soil: Neutral, Well-Drained
Zone: 2 - 8

Hardy Perennial. These long-lived perennials from China bloom once a year with magnificent showy blooms in rose, pink, white, cream, rosy red or magenta shades. Undisturbed clumps known to date from eight or a hundred years ago are not rare, and their fragrant flowers are as gorgeous as ever. Choose early-, midseason-, and late-blooming varieties for six or more weeks of continuous bloom. Use peonies in flower borders, as shrublike plants and in the cutting garden. Plant in the autumn months while they are dormant. The roots have 'eyes' which must be planted no deeper than 1 inch below the soil. Planting any deeper will inhibit flowering. Peonies require very rich soil that has been amended with compost or well-rotted manure and is deeply cultivated. Full sun is preferred but some shade is essential in the warmer zones. Fall foliage provides some good color for your autumn landscape, also.