Paeonia lactiflora
Garden Peony
Peonies are wedding-season and cottage-garden favorites in the US Midwest and Northern Europe — lush blooms with loyal perennial search interest.
View GalleryCare Overview
Light
Full sun
6+ hours; light shade OK in hot afternoons.
Water
Weekly
Even moisture in spring; avoid soggy crowns.
Temperature
Cold winters
Needs chill; poor choice for frost-free zones.
Humidity
Average
Space plants for airflow to limit botrytis.
Soil
Fertile loam
Rich, well-drained soil; plant buds 1–2 in deep.
Pet Safe
Mild–moderate
Can cause stomach upset; not a preferred chew toy.
Detailed Care Instructions
Planting depth
Set eyes (growth buds) no more than 1–2 inches below soil. Deeper planting is a top reason for no flowers.
Support
Install peony rings early. Double blooms get heavy after rain.
Disease
Remove dead foliage in fall. Avoid overhead watering to reduce botrytis blight.
Division
Divide in autumn every several years if clumps weaken — keep 3–5 eyes per division.
