Taken by Fanghong / CC BY 2.5
garden
Peony
Paeonia corallina
Overview
Beloved for their opulent, fragrant blooms that can last for generations — some peony plants have been documented living over 100 years. These long-lived perennials produce dinner-plate-sized flowers in every shade of pink, red, white, and yellow, often with intoxicating rose-like fragrance. Herbaceous peonies die to the ground in winter, while tree peonies develop woody stems and can grow into impressive shrubs.
Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones6 — 10
Height1.02m
Spread1.6m
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeRich, well-drained, fertile loam
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | Sep — Oct | Plant in fall ONLY; eyes must be 1-2 inches below soil surface |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Sep — Oct | Plant in fall; too-deep planting prevents blooming |
| Moderate (5-7) | Prune | Oct — Nov | Cut stems to ground after first hard frost |
Uses
Culinary
- Petals used as garnish and in salads
- Peony water used in Middle Eastern desserts
Medicinal
- White peony root (Bai Shao) is a major Chinese medicine herb for blood and pain
- Traditional use for menstrual and muscle pain
Other Uses
- Quintessential cottage garden perennial with extraordinary longevity
- Premier cut flower for weddings and events
- Can live and bloom for 100+ years
