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Peony Wikimedia Commons
Paeoniaceae

Peony

Paeonia

Prosperity, romance, good fortune, honor.

Family
Paeoniaceae
Genus
Paeonia
Native to
Asia, Europe, Western North America
Bloom season
Late Spring, Early Summer
Type
herbaceous perennial or woody shrub
Height
0.25–3 m
Sunlight
Full sun (6+ hours)
Soil
Fertile, well-drained, pH 6.5–7.0
Water
Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Hardiness
3–8
Lifespan
Perennial; some plants live over 100 years

Did you know

  • The peony is the unofficial national flower of China, where it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years.
  • Peonies can live 100+ years with minimal care, often outliving the gardeners who plant them.
  • They're traditionally given for the 12th wedding anniversary.
  • Ants on peony buds are not harmful — they eat the nectar and help open the flowers.
  • In Greek mythology, Paeon was a physician to the gods who was transformed into the peony flower.

Uses

  • Ornamental
  • Cut flowers
  • Traditional Chinese medicine