Peony.

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Care level

Easy

Plant type

Perennial herbaceous or woody shrub

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Indoor light

bright-indirect

Water

Every 7 to 14 days

Mature size

3 to 4 feet tall and wide

Growth rate

medium

Hardiness

USDA 3 to 8

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Cuidados

Peonies prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Avoid disturbing their roots once planted, as they dislike being moved. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Watering

Water regularly, especially when young and during dry spells, but avoid waterlogged soil.

Feeding

Fertilize in early spring just as new growth appears, using a balanced fertilizer.

Pruning

Cut back herbaceous peonies to the ground in late fall after foliage dies back. Prune woody peonies lightly after flowering to shape.

Repotting

Peonies are best left undisturbed for many years; transplant only when necessary, ideally in fall.

Soil

Rich, well-drained loam

Soil pH

6.5 to 7.5

Temperature

-34.4 to 26.7°C

Humidity

40 to 60%

Drought tolerance

moderate

Lifespan

Perennial, often living for 50+ years.

Fragrance

light

Deer and rabbits

moderate

Seguridad

People

Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting.

Children

While not highly toxic, children might experience mild stomach upset if they eat peony parts.

Contact allergens

The sap can be a mild skin irritant for some individuals.

Airborne allergens

Peony pollen can be a respiratory irritant for those with pollen allergies.

Edibility

While some parts of peonies have been used in traditional medicine, they are not generally considered edible and can cause stomach upset if ingested.

Cómo identificarla

• Large, often double flowers
• Deeply lobed leaves
• Woody or herbaceous stems
• Fragrant blooms
• Tuberous roots

Height

0.9 to 1.2m

Spread

0.9 to 1.2m

Leaves

Green, Dark green, deciduous

Flowers

Pink, Red, White, Yellow, Coral, 10 to 30cm

Problemas frecuentes

• Botrytis blight — A gray mold that can affect stems, leaves, and buds, especially in wet conditions.
• Powdery mildew — A white, powdery coating on leaves, common in humid conditions with poor air circulation.
• Root nematodes — Microscopic worms that can damage roots, leading to stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
• Ants — Ants are attracted to the nectar produced by peony buds and do not harm the plant.

Cómo cultivarla

Propagation

Division, Seed

When to plant

Spring, Fall

Overwintering

In colder climates, cut back the dead foliage after the first frost. Mulch the crown lightly to protect it from extreme cold. In milder climates, simply remove dead foliage.

In containers

Peonies can be grown in large containers, at least 15-20 gallons, but they prefer to be planted in the ground where they can establish a deep root system.

Plant peonies with companions that have similar sun and soil requirements, and consider their bloom times for continuous garden interest.

Buenas compañeras

• Roses — Roses and peonies bloom around the same time and share similar light and soil needs, creating a beautiful display together.
• Catmint — Catmint's low-growing habit and long bloom time can fill in around the base of peonies, providing continuous color.
• Salvia — Salvia offers vertical interest and blooms that complement the large, showy flowers of peonies.
• Alliums — Allium's globe-shaped flowers provide a different texture and bloom earlier, fading as the peonies start to open.

Mantenla lejos de

• Aphids — Aphids can sometimes infest new growth, though peonies are generally resistant.
• Mealybugs — These pests can occasionally be found on peonies, particularly in warmer climates or greenhouses.

Especies parecidas

• Tree Peonies — Tree peonies are woody shrubs that do not die back to the ground in winter, unlike herbaceous peonies.
• Itoh Peonies — These are a hybrid between herbaceous and tree peonies, offering unique flower forms and colors.

Ciencia

Family

Paeoniaceae

Genus

Paeonia

Order

Saxifragales

Class

Magnoliopsida

Native range

Asia, Europe, and western North America.

Conservation

Peonies are not currently considered endangered or of conservation concern.

In their native habitats, peonies often grow in woodlands, meadows, and on rocky slopes, preferring well-drained soil and adequate sunlight.

Value to wildlife

nectar source, pollen source

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, moths

Uses

Ornamental, Cut flowers, Medicinal (traditional)

Taxonomía cotejada con GBIF.

Lo que más preguntan

How long do peonies live?

Peonies are long-lived perennials and can thrive for 50 years or even much longer with good care.

Why do ants like peonies?

Ants are attracted to the sugary nectar produced by the buds, which they use as a food source.

When is the best time to plant peonies?

The best time to plant peonies is in the fall, allowing their roots to establish before winter.

Do peonies need full sun?

Yes, peonies generally prefer full sun, at least 6 to 8 hours per day, for best flowering.

Why aren't my peonies blooming?

Reasons can include planting too deep, insufficient sunlight, or the plant being too young.

De dónde viene el nombre

The genus name Paeonia is derived from Paeon, the Greek god of healing in mythology. The common name 'peony' shares this origin.

Bueno saberlo

• Peonies can live for many decades, sometimes over 100 years.
• The name 'peony' comes from Greek mythology.
• Some varieties have a delightful fragrance.
• Ants are often seen on peony buds, drawn to their sweet nectar.