Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Chinese peony is not a particularly thirsty plant; they do well in most soil types, and they usually only require supplemental watering during the fall and spring (just enough to keep their soil moist). Their flowers and leaves are susceptible to rot and disease, so take care not to overwater or get these parts of the plant too wet, especially during the summer.

Fertilization

Peony is not a nutrient-hungry plant, but giving them some annual fertilizer can help keep them extra healthy and producing big, colorful blooms. These flowers tend to prefer low-nitrogen (e.g., 5-10-10) fertilizer blends. They take well to bonemeal, too. Feed your peony by adding powder fertilizer to the soil around the stem in late spring.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Loam, Clay, Sand, Chalky, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Peony

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

4 to 10

Planting Time

Spring, Early summer, Fall, Early winter

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Questions About Peony

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Peony?

When watering the Peony, you should aim to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Filtered water is better for this plant, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to its health. The reason that the water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer is that the Peony comes from a warm environment, and cold water can be somewhat of a shock to its system. Also, you should avoid overhead watering for this plant, as it can cause foliage complications. Instead, simply apply your filtered room temperature water to the soil until the soil is entirely soaked. Soaking the soil can be very beneficial for this plant as it moistens the roots and helps them continue to spread through the soil and collect the nutrients they need.

What should I do if I water my Peony too much or too little?

Both overwatering and underwatering will be detrimental to the health of your Peony, but overwatering is a far more common issue. When this species receives too much water, its stems and leaves may begin to wilt and turn from green to yellow. Overwatering over a prolonged period may also lead to diseases such as root rot, mold, and mildew, all of which can kill your plant. Underwatering is far less common for the Peony, as this plant has decent drought tolerance. However, underwatering remains a possibility, and when it occurs, you can expect to find that the leaves of your Peony have become brittle and brown.

It is crucial that you notice the signs of overwatering as soon as possible when caring for your Peony. Some of the diseases that arise from overwatering, such as root rot, may not be correctable if you wait too long. If you see early signs of overwatering, you should reduce your watering schedule immediately. You may also want to assess the quality of soil in which your Peony grows. If you find that the soil drains very poorly, you should replace it immediately with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if you find signs that your Peony is receiving too little water, all you need to do is water more regularly until those signs have subsided.

How often should I water my Peony?

If your plant is in a pot. The most precise way to decide whether your Peony needs water is to plunge your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first two to three inches of soil have become dry, it is time to add some water.

If you grow your Peony outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method to test the soil. Again, when you find that the first few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to add water. During the spring and early fall, this method will often lead you to water this plant about once every week. When extremely hot weather arrives, you may need to increase your watering frequency to about twice or more per week. With that said, mature, well-established the Peony can show an admirable ability to withstand drought.

How much water does my Peony need?

When it comes time to water your Peony, you should not be shy about how much water you give. With the first two to three inches of soil dry, this plant will appreciate a long and thorough watering. Supply enough water to soak the soil entirely. The amount of water you add should be enough to cause excess water to flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If you don’t see excess water draining from the pot, you have likely underwatered your plant. But do not let the water accumulate inside the soil, which will be very dangerous to the plant as well. Alternatively, a lack of water draining through the pot could indicate poorly draining soils, which is detrimental to the health of this plant and should be avoided. If the plant is outside, 1 inch of rain per week will be sufficient.

How should I water my Peony at different growth stages?

The water needs of the Peony can change depending on growth stages as well. For example, when your Peony is in the first few years of its life, or if you have just transplanted it to a new growing location, you will need to give more water than usual. During both of those stages, your Peony will put a lot of energy towards sprouting new roots that will then support future growth. For those roots to perform their best, they need a bit more moisture than they would at a more mature phase. After a few seasons, your Peony will need much less water. Another growth stage in which this plant may need more water is during the bloom period. Flower development can make use of a significant amount of moisture, which is why you might need to give your Peony more water at this time.

How should I water my Peony through the seasons?

The Peony will have its highest water needs during the hottest months of the year. During the height of summer, you may need to give this plant water more than once per week, depending on how fast the soil dries out. The opposite is true during the winter. In winter, your plant will enter a dormant phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. In fact, you may not need to water this plant at all during the winter months. However, if you do water during winter, you should not do so more than about once per month. Watering too much at this time will make it more likely that your Peony will contract a disease.

What's the difference between watering my Peony indoors and outdoors?

It is most common to grow the Peony indoors for any gardener that does not live in temperate and tropical regions. Those gardeners should consider the fact that soil in a container can dry out a bit faster than ground soil. Also, the presence of drying elements such as air conditioning units can cause your Peony to need water on a more frequent basis as well. if you planted it outside. When that is the case, it’s likely you won’t need to water your Peony very much at all. If you receive rainfall on a regular basis, that may be enough to keep your plant alive. Alternatively, those who grow this plant inside will need to water it more often, as allowing rainwater to soak the soil will not be an option.

Do I need to prune my Peony?

Far from damaging the plant, regular pruning will actually encourage Peony to produce more blooms. There are two primary forms of pruning for Peony. The first is deadheading, which is the gardening term for removing spent flower heads once they start to wither. This concentrates the nutrients for the other flowers and allows the plant to flower better. The final process for pruning Peony is the removal of yellow and diseased leaves, which increases plant ventilation and light penetration and facilitates plant growth. When nature runs its course, Peony will bloom once, produce seed heads, and attempt to reproduce for the rest of the year. But, by consistently removing flower heads before they go to seed, you encourage the plant to continue producing more blooms for a longer flowering time. When the plant starts to wilt during the full, you should cut off the wilted part above the soil as well.

When is the best time to prune my Peony?

There are two primary forms of pruning for Peony. The first is deadheading, which is the gardening term for removing spent flower heads once they start to wither. This concentrates the nutrients for the other flowers and allows the plant to flower better. The final process for pruning Peony is the removal of yellow and diseased leaves, which increases plant ventilation and light penetration and facilitates plant growth. Since Peony requires two types of pruning, you’ll be trimming your plants throughout the growing season. Pinching is most effective in the early spring before the plant develops any flower buds. Removal of yellowing or diseased leaves can be done at any time during the growing season. When nature runs its course, Peony will bloom once, produce seed heads, and attempt to reproduce for the rest of the year. But, by consistently removing flower heads before they go to seed, you encourage the plant to continue producing more blooms for a longer flowering time. Finally, deadheading takes place as soon as the plants are producing full flower heads. Expect to take off spent blossoms from mid-summer through the first frosts of fall. When the plant starts to wilt during the full, you should cut off the wilted part above the soil as well.

What tools should I prepare for pruning my Peony?

Peony doesn’t take much special equipment for pruning. A basic pair of scissors or garden shears should do the trick. It’s a good idea to ensure they are clean before use—you can soak them for thirty minutes in a solution of one part bleach diluted in nine parts water. This reduces the risk of spreading disease lingering on contaminated equipment into your flower garden. Some gardeners avoid using tools altogether and merely pinch off the blossoms with their fingertips. That can be a faster technique, but you run a larger risk of bruising the plant stems or accidentally pulling them out of the ground completely.

Are there any instructions for pruning my Peony?

Here’s an overview of pruning instructions for Peony based on which of the two types you’re completing. By completing these two types of pruning over the lifespan of your Peony, you’ll encourage them to produce bigger, better flowers for far longer than the plants would otherwise. It only takes a few minutes to complete each step of the pruning process, and you’ll reap the rewards of your efforts for weeks to come. Deadheading Deadheading is a fast, easy way to refresh your garden by removing old flowers and providing space for new ones to take their place. You can use your fingers to pop off old flower heads as soon as they look tired, although you’re less likely to damage the plant if you use shears instead. When deadheading, make sure you cut well below the flower so that you aren’t left with a long, flowerless stem sticking out in your garden bed. Instead, cut the stem to just above the point where the side stem joins the main plant. Remove yellow and diseased leaves, this increases the ventilation and light penetration of the plant and facilitates its growth. When pruning, the leaves need to be trimmed off together with the petiole. It is best to use sterilised scissors to cut them off. Note: It’s a good idea to ensure scissors or garden shears are clean before use—you can soak them for thirty minutes in a solution of one part bleach diluted in nine parts water. This reduces the risk of spreading disease lingering on contaminated equipment into your flower garden.

What type of sunlight does Peony need?

Peony needs full sun every day, and these plants rely on a minimum of six hours of sunlight to keep their leaves, roots, and blooms in a healthy state. Even though most perennials need six hours of sunlight a day, plants like the Orange Daylily or Giant Coreopsis could live off less sun for a minimum of three hours daily. Even though these perennial flowering plants can live with only three hours of direct sunlight, they won't be able to thrive like they would in sunnier conditions.

Can sunlight damage Peony? How to protect Peony from the sun and heat damage?

The few Perennial Flowering Plants that don't like excessive heat in warm climates might react poorly to too much sun if they have heat damage. These plants may wilt or dry out from too much sun and may also develop growth issues if they're regularly in the sun during the most intense heat of the day. Some plants don't need protection from the light afternoon sun, but those that are harmed by intense afternoon exposure should be provided some shade in warmer climates. Gardeners could give these plants plenty of shade by planting them in spots that don't receive direct heat during the afternoon, like under trees or behind bushes.

Should I protect Peony from sun exposure?

While many perennial plants need plenty of sun to bloom to their fullest extent, some of them benefit from less sun in warmer climates. For example, people who live in hotter climates might want to provide shade for their flowering perennials in the hot afternoon sun, and this is even more true for months in the summer.

Even though some perennial flowering plants will benefit from partially shaded in the hottest climates, plants like the Giant Coreopsis aren't intimidated by too much sun. They might sit outside in the full sun in hot weather and still thrive.

What will happen if Peony gets inadequate sunlight?

If you're growing Peony and you aren't getting enough sunlight, you'll notice signs of inadequate requirements in your plants. Most plants won't produce as many blooms as they would if they had full sun exposure. Some plants will develop dry spots on their leaves, but most of these plants will still bloom in the inadequate sun. Even though they bloom, the flowers will be smaller and less full.

Does Peony need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Peony is great flowers in gardens and will have optimum blooming if it gets six hours of sunlight a day minimum. Sometimes, flowers stay fresh longer if they're partially shaded during the really hot parts of the day. When Peony is young, gardeners want to ensure their younger plants are getting plenty of sunlight but don't have to endure intense heat during the afternoon sunlight. If you have a fully mature plant, provide it with plenty of sun so it may keep up its growth properly.

How much light does Peony need for photosynthesis?

Peony will need a minimum of six hours of light to best support their photosynthesis cycles. These flowering plants need the sun to help their foliage and blooms grow. However, certain perennial flowering plants like the Giant Coreopsis might need anywhere from eight to twelve hours of full sun a day to maintain their large flowers and healthy foliage.

How much light should Peony get per day to grow healthily?

If you want your Peony to grow healthy and bloom as much as possible during its blooming season, you should try to give your plant six hours of direct sunlight. Some perennial plants might even do more sunlight and could sit in the sun for up to twelve hours, depending on the heat in the area and the general environment. Plants like the Red Hot Poker and Giant Coreopsis thrive in much hotter climates and might sit in all types of strong sunlight.

Some home gardeners have to use grow lights because their spaces don't allow for tons of outdoor sunlight. Most perennials could grow happily in grow lights, but they will need anywhere from eight to fourteen hours of artificial light to stay strong since these lights don't have as much power as the sun.

What is the optimal temperature for Peony?

The best temperature for Peony depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once Peony has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then Peony may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, Peony will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of Peony. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for Peony to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Peony

If this is the first year of your Peony outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year Peony, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your Peony inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant Peony in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year Peony should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect Peony from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect Peony from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing Peony in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted Peony is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose Peony to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Peony

During the cold winter months, Peony needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to Peony, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from Peony. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, Peony will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my Peony?

Fertilization is important to the Peony for several general reasons. Mainly, fertilization helps Peony and other plants by providing key nutrients that help the plant grow both above and below ground. However, the overall fertilization needs for a Peony are relatively low.

At times, a Peony may survive well without fertilization. However, annual fertilization is can be very beneficial to the Peony, as it will help keep the plant alive and may also encourage your Peony to create better flowers that last for longer. As such, those interested in helping their Peony look its best should keep up with annual fertilization.

When is the best time to fertilize my Peony?

The ideal time to fertilize a Peony is in the late winter to early spring. During that time, your Peony will be exiting its dormant phase and entering a phase of active growth. Fertilization at this time allows the plant to get off to a great start for the season by encouraging healthy growth.

While it is generally most advantageous to fertilize a Peony during the early spring, it is also permissible to fertilize a Peony during the fall too. However, summer and winter remain the seasons in which it is not a good idea to feed a Peony.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Peony?

You should not fertilize your Peony during any time of the year except during the late winter and early spring. The low fertilization needs of this plant allow a single annual feeding to suffice. Continuing to fertilize throughout spring, summer, and fall can easily lead to overfertilization and all of the complications that can come with it. The only exception is if you did not fertilize in spring, which means that it is permissible to feed this plant in fall.

Along with refraining from fertilizing for most of the growing season, there is also no reason to fertilize this plant during the winter. In winter, the Peony will be in a dormant growth phase, meaning that it does not put forth new growth. With that being the case, fertilization during most of the winter is not advisable.

What type of fertilizer does my Peony need?

Nearly any kind of general-purpose fertilizer with a balanced amount of the three main plant nutrients will work well for a Peony. However, there are a few specific nutrient blends that can be even more beneficial. For instance, many gardeners follow the belief that higher volumes of phosphorus make for stronger roots and better flowers. Since Peony is a flowering plant, applying a phosphorus-rich fertilizer may be the best approach.

You can use a fertilizer that comes in a granular form or a liquid form as long as there are plenty of nutrients present. Outside of manufactured fertilizers, you can also use more organic means to improve the soil for your Peony. Mainly, compost, manure, and similar materials can go a long way towards creating a healthy growing medium for your Peony.

How do I fertilize my Peony?

The most common way to fertilize a Peony is to apply a granular or pellet fertilizer to the soil around your plant. Remember that the ideal time to fertilize is as the plant is exiting its winter dormant growth phase and entering a phase of active growth. In early spring, wait until the plant begins to send shoots through the soil, and then apply your fertilizer.

Some people may choose to use a liquid fertilizer instead of a granular one. In that case, you should dilute the fertilizer with water before applying it. Regardless of whether you use granular or liquid fertilizer, it is always best to moisten the soil before, during, and after you apply fertilizer.

What happens if I fertilize my Peony too much?

As you care for your Peony, recall that this plant does not need a lot of fertilizer each year and will begin to suffer if it receives too much. Firstly, any overfertilized plant runs the risk of fertilizer burn, a condition in which excessive amounts of fertilizer draw nutrients and moisture out of the plant's roots, causing its decline.

Also, overfertilizing a Peony is also a way of weakening your plant and making disease far more likely. There is also a potential that overfertilization could cause your Peony to flower less or not at all, which is a significant detriment considering the blooms of this plant are what make it so valuable and sought after by so many gardeners.

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More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant, etc.

Feng shui direction

South

The peony is generally compatible with the South-facing direction in Feng Shui. Its vibrant colors and robust growth symbolically encourage an environment of prosperity and abundance. This positioning harmonizes the Yang energy of the southern orientation, fostering an auspicious energy balance in the space.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Peony originates from environments with diverse moisture levels. Water when the soil feels dry to touch. Overwatering can be harmful, so only water when necessary.

Lighting

Full sun

The peony enjoys abundant sun exposure for optimal growth, yet tolerates the solace of some shade. Originating from habitat with copious light, the plant thrives under such conditions. While excessive sun could potentially burn foliage, inadequate can lead to stunted growth and sparse blooms.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

As a peony, it thrives in temperate regions with an average temperature range of 5 to 35 ℃ (41 to 95 ℉). During spring, it prefers cooler temperatures between 5 and 15 ℃ (41 and 59 ℉) and benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture. In summer, it can tolerate warmer temperatures up to 30 ℃ (86 ℉) but requires regular watering. During fall, temperature adjustment is not necessary as it's able to tolerate the fluctuations. In winter, it prefers temperatures between -15 and 5 ℃ (5 to 41 ℉) and requires mulching to protect the roots.

Transplant

3-4 feet

The perfect time to transplant peony is between mid-spring and early summer, as warmer temperatures encourage root growth. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. Gently loosen the root ball when transplanting, ensuring a successful transition for the plant.

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Peony based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Petal blight

Bacterial infections can cause flowers to become soft and rotten.

Solutions: Like other fungal diseases, the progression of petal blight is extremely difficult to stop and impossible to reverse once it infects a plant. The best course of action is to remove all damaged flowers immediately and dispose of them entirely. Do not put them in the compost pile, where spores could grow and spread.

Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

Solutions: Even though caterpillars are diverse, they all chew on plant parts and can cause significant damage if present in large numbers. For severe cases: Apply insecticide. For an organic solution, spray plants with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which specifically affects the larval stage of moths and butterflies. Be sure to coat plants, since caterpillars need to ingest Bt for it to be effective. This will not harm other insects. Spray a chili extract. Chili seeds can be cooked in water to make a spicy spray that caterpillars don't like. Spray this mixture on the plants, but be aware it will also be spicy to humans. Introduce beneficial insects. Release beneficial insects to the garden that eat caterpillars, such as parasitic wasps. For less severe cases: Hand pick. Using gloves, pick off caterpillars on plants and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. Dust plants with diatomaceous earth. This powder is harmless to humans but irritates caterpillars. Therefore, it will make it difficult for caterpillars to move and eat.

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: The easiest (and most obvious) way to address underwatering is to fully hydrate the plant. However, this must be done carefully. A common mistake that many gardeners make is to douse their underwatered plants with water. This can overwhelm the roots of the plant and shock its system, something that can be even more damaging than the lack of water to begin with. Instead, water thoroughly and slowly, taking breaks to let the water slowly saturate through the soil to get to the roots. Use room temperature water, as cold water might be too much of a shock. In the future, shorten the time between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around each plant daily. If it’s dry to at least two inches down, it’s time to water. If a container plant is repeatedly drying out very quickly, repotting into a slower-draining container might be a good idea, too.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry open stony slopes, riverbanks, sparse woodland edges, woods, grasslands

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Yellow

Red

Bloom Time

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common garden peony

As an ornamental plant, it happens to have up to hundreds of different species varying in color, size and appearance. Any of the varieties add beauty to any garden. Considering it is commonly planted in gardens, it is called the common garden peony. Interestingly, the word “peony” is derived from the Latin name “paeonia”.

Symbolism

Have a heart, beautiful and moving, reluctant, inseparable, honor, good fortune

Usages

Artistic Value

The Chinese peony is one of the ten famous flowers in China, and is often used as the theme of painting and poetry.

Garden Use

Peony is one of the most common perennial flowers, found in gardens across temperate climates. Peony is renowned for its large, showy flowers and beautiful array of colors. Its strong stem makes it great as a cut flower, and the wide variety of cultivars make for great borders, specimen plants, cottage or urban gardens, and more. It works well with alliums, roses, and bearded irises.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Family

Genus

Peonies

Species

The rainbow tree (Dracaena angustifolia) is native to Asia and is a member of the asparagus family that grows in the understories of tropical forests. Ornamentally, it can function both as an indoor and outdoor shrub. Substances from the rainbow tree can be used to create green dye.

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Rainbow tree

Dracaena plants of Asparagaceae (Dracaena spp.) are excellent indoor ornamental plants, easy to maintain. They can be evergreen and grow slowly with a continuous water supply and proper filtered light ensured. The leaves of corn plants are often used to decorate flower bouquets; the lucky bamboo can be used for decoration as a hydroponic plant, and the gold dust can be planted outdoors as bushes.

Summer

Garden Usage

Banyan tree

Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) is a tree species that germinates in cracks and crevices of other trees or structures. Banyan tree grows by emitting aerial roots and forming a canopy. The banyan tree is the national tree of the Republic of India and has religious significance.

Plants of genus Ficus are often used in arbors and shrubs, as it usually grows large. If it is planted in a garden, choose a wide plot to give it enough space. It can also be planted in a flowerpot and maintained indoors at early stages, and transplanted to a garden later on. Its attractive green leaves require a warm, humid environment; we consider it a medium level difficulty plant to care.

All year around

Garden Usage

Pinwheel flower

Pinwheel flower (Tabernaemontana divaricata) is an evergreen shrub that can grow to 2.5 m tall. White, pinwheel-shaped flowers with a carnation-like fragrance bloom year-round. Easy to grow in light shade to full sun. Popular as a backdrop for gardens and as a natural hedge.

Common globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) is an edible flowering plant native to Central America. Other common names for common globe amaranth are the makhmali and vadamalli. Common globe amaranth is commonly cultivated in landscaping for its bright colors, and is used in leis in Hawaii. Common globe amaranth attracts insects, including butterflies and bees.

Spring, summer

Common globe amaranth

The common globe amaranth is commonly planted at the front of borders, where it fills in any gaps left behind by spring bulbs. However, newly-bred varieties have given gardeners more options, with this plant now being used more creatively. No matter the variety you choose, the common globe amaranth is a strong and resilient plant that is extremely easy to care for and requires little maintenance once established., The common globe amaranth produces colorful flowers in purples, whites, and oranges, with all varieties having a long blooming time. In addition to brightening up the garden, these gorgeous blooms are also popular cut flowers, and last for several years when used in dried flower arrangements.

Summer, autumn

Garden Usage

Mistletoe cactus

Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a species found in Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Florida. Mistletoe cactus is the only cactus species that occurs naturally outside the New World. It is hypothesized that it was seeded in Africa by migratory birds traveling across the Atlantic Ocean. This species is considered easy to maintain as a houseplant and is often grown as a houseplant in hanging planters.

Osteospermum ecklonis, commonly known as cape marguerite, is an evergreen, perennial small shrub with typical daisy-shaped white or purple flowers. It is cultivated as an ornamental in containers and borders. Flowers of this lovely plant are often visited by bees and other pollinators.

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Plant Collection Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round Bearded iris See More BloomTime:Spring The Bearded iris is a flowering plant that appears in many different colors. It is a popular garden plant because it’s easy to grow. Though their native lands are in Europe, Bearded irises are often grownContinue reading “Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round”

20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements

Plant Collection 20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements There’s nothing quite like a bright and beautiful bunch of cut flowers to lighten up any room and bring the outdoors indoors. If you’d like to create a stunning display of cut flowers, check out our list to find out which flowers make for the bestContinue reading “20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements”

12 Plants That Symbolize Love and Romance

Plant Collection 12 Plants That Symbolize Love and Romance Romance is often shown with a rose, but what if you can symbolize your love with more garden plants? We have the perfect list of plants that create a romantic atmosphere to showcase your love. Carnation See More Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is a herbaceous ornamental perennialContinue reading “12 Plants That Symbolize Love and Romance”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Most Common Shrub

Plant Collection Most Common Shrub China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it is easy toContinue reading “Most Common Shrub”

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Add to My Garden

Peony

Paeonia lactiflora

Also known as: Common garden peony, White peony

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight

Full sun

Care Guide for Peony

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Loam, Clay, Sand, Chalky, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About Peony

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Peony?

What should I do if I water my Peony too much or too little?

How often should I water my Peony?

How much water does my Peony need?

How should I water my Peony at different growth stages?

How should I water my Peony through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Peony indoors and outdoors?

Do I need to prune my Peony?

When is the best time to prune my Peony?

What tools should I prepare for pruning my Peony?

Are there any instructions for pruning my Peony?

What type of sunlight does Peony need?

Can sunlight damage Peony? How to protect Peony from the sun and heat damage?

Should I protect Peony from sun exposure?

What will happen if Peony gets inadequate sunlight?

Does Peony need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

How much light does Peony need for photosynthesis?

How much light should Peony get per day to grow healthily?

What is the optimal temperature for Peony?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Peony

How can I protect Peony from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Peony

Why do I need to fertilize my Peony?

When is the best time to fertilize my Peony?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Peony?

What type of fertilizer does my Peony need?

How do I fertilize my Peony?

What happens if I fertilize my Peony too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Peony based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Petal blight

Bacterial infections can cause flowers to become soft and rotten.

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Caterpillars

Caterpillars are fleshy moth or butterfly larvae that come in an array of colors, patterns, and even hairstyles. They chew on leaves and flower petals, creating large, irregular holes.

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Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Dry open stony slopes, riverbanks, sparse woodland edges, woods, grasslands

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Yellow

Red

Bloom Time

Spring

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Common garden peony

Symbolism

Have a heart, beautiful and moving, reluctant, inseparable, honor, good fortune

Usages

Artistic Value

The Chinese peony is one of the ten famous flowers in China, and is often used as the theme of painting and poetry.

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Saxifrages, stonecrops and allies

Family

Genus

Peonies

Species

Tabernaemontana divaricata

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Related Plants

Rainbow tree

Dracaena angustifolia

Banyan tree

Ficus benghalensis

Pinwheel flower

Common globe amaranth

Osteospermum ecklonis

20 Flowers That Make Beautiful Cut Arrangements

12 Plants That Symbolize Love and Romance

Most Common Shrub