Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

Peonies are stunning perennial flowers that command attention in any garden with their massive, multi-petaled blooms that can reach the size of dinner plates. The flowers emerge from round, tightly packed buds that gradually unfurl into layers of delicate petals, ranging in color from pure white to deep crimson, with countless pink variations in between. Their lush, deeply lobed dark green foliage forms a bushy mound that provides an attractive backdrop even after the blooming period has ended, typically growing 2-3 feet tall and wide.

These beloved flowers have an rich history dating back over 2,000 years in China, where they were known as 'sho-yo' and were cultivated not only for their beauty but also for medicinal purposes. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), peonies were designated as the national flower and were so valued that imperial gardens were created solely for their cultivation. The plant eventually made its way to Europe via the Silk Road, where it gained popularity in the gardens of nobility and earned the nickname "King of Flowers."

Peonies thrive best in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce abundant blooms. They are remarkably cold-hardy plants that actually require a period of winter chill (known as vernalization) to flower properly the following spring. The blooming season typically spans late spring to early summer, with each flower lasting about 7-10 days. These plants demonstrate impressive longevity, often living for 50-100 years when properly established, making them true heritage plants that can be passed down through generations.

When planting peonies, proper depth is crucial - the eyes (growing points) should be no more than 2 inches below the soil surface in cold regions and 1 inch in warmer areas. While they can tolerate various soil types, they prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. One common concern with peonies is their susceptibility to botrytis blight, a fungal disease that can affect the buds and stems, particularly during wet springs. Additionally, their heavy blooms often require support structures to prevent them from flopping over after rain, and ants are frequently observed on the flower buds - though contrary to popular belief, they are not necessary for the buds to open.

Faithful deadheading of spent blooms will maintain the plant's appearance and redirect energy to root and leaf growth rather than seed production. In late fall, the foliage should be cut back to ground level and disposed of (not composted) to prevent disease organisms from overwintering. While peonies can be somewhat slow to establish and may take 2-3 years to reach full blooming potential, their patience-rewarding display and longevity make them an invaluable addition to any perennial garden. Notably, they are also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant once established, adding to their appeal as a low-maintenance perennial choice.