Pronunciation of genus name: pe-O-ne-a

 

Some species names include delavayi (del-la-VA-i), lactifolia (lak-tif-LO-ra), mascula (MAS-ku-la) and officinalis (of-is-in-A-lis).

 

Most peonies are known by the genus (Paeonia) followed by the variety name, for example P. ‘Sarah Bernhardt’.

 

I think peonies are wonderful plants for cottage gardens and they have been grown in the UK since the 16th century.

 

Most people know peonies as herbaceous perennials or tree peonies, although there are also hybrids called Intersectional (Itoh) peonies. These have a low woody structure which dies back each year before producing large flowers over a longer flowering period. They usually grow between 0.5m and 1m high.

 

Herbaceous peonies grow from 0.25m–1m, making them ideal for the front or middle of a border. Patience is often needed, as peonies can take several years to flower well, especially after being moved. However, the beautiful flowers and deeply lobed foliage make them worth the wait.

 

Tree peonies are actually shrubs, usually growing between 1.5m and 2.5m high, so they are better suited to the back of a border. I like to surround them with lower plants so the flowers can still be appreciated.

 

Both herbaceous and intersectional peonies dislike being planted too deeply, ideally no more than 2.5–5cm below the soil surface. If planted too deep, they may produce leaves but no flowers.

 

I find peonies grow best in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position. They tolerate most soils but benefit from an annual slow-release fertiliser feed. Although low maintenance, heavy rain can damage larger blooms, so staking may help.

 

The main disease problem is Peony Wilt, which causes brown patches and collapsing foliage and flowers. I remove and burn infected material to help prevent it spreading.

 

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