Peonies and their history

One of the most popular peony plants is common peony or Paeonia lactiflora in Latin. Peony is a native flower of China. The Chinese name for peony, “sho yu,” translates into “most beautiful.” They are referred to as the “king of flowers.” Up until 1929, it was their national flower. During the Sui and Tang dynasties, it was planted at the Imperial Palace. This gave the peony its meaning of honor, nobility and wealth.

There are three types of peonies. The first is herbaceous, which dies back to the ground in the fall. Depending on weather, they bloom for seven to 10 days in spring or early summer.  They reach a height of 2 to 3 feet and bloom in red, pink or white colors, giving off a fragrance. These will do well in zones 2-8. They can grow in full sun with some afternoon shade. They need to be watered once a week.

The second type of peonies are tree peonies or Paeonia suffruticosa. They are woody and can grow to be 7 feet tall. They come in colors of white, pale yellow and pink. These will do well in zones 3-8. These prefer more shade. But they need regular watering, which can be once a week.

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