What to plant for Peony perfection

The florists’ favourite offers high returns for very little in the way of care, and many add interest long after their flowering period. Louise Curley explores the different types

- Louise Curley

CULTIVATED in China for centuries and planted en masse at the Imperial Palace during the Sui Dynasty, peonies are known there as the ‘King of Flowers’, symbolizing riches and prosperity. And with their voluptuous blooms, handsome foliage, fine fragrance and range of colors, it’s not hard to see why. Unashamedly romantic, they work equally well in a classic English cottage garden or a more modern planting scheme.

Their appeal goes beyond looks and fragrance, however. According to nursery owner Claire Austin, holder of the National Collection of hybrid herbaceous peonies, their easygoing nature makes them “perfect for busy gardeners”. Claire explains: “Peonies are very hardy, long-lived, and tolerant of neglect. They’re great for cutting, too, although they can take up to three years to produce a lot of flowers.”

As for the notion that peonies can’t be moved? Luckily, this is a myth. So long as the roots are replanted at the correct depth, they should happily regrow. Take care, too, when mulching – don’t cover the crown of the plant as this can cause your peony to stop blooming.

Foliage interest

Granted, the flowering period is short at 10-14 days, but by opting for a mix of early, mid, and late-season cultivars, you can have peonies in bloom for several months. And don’t underestimate their foliage. Emerging in spring, shoots are often a striking crimson; then, once those big blooms have faded, the attractive mid-green leaves provide a useful backdrop to perennial flowers, while in autumn peony foliage takes on red, orange, and golden tones.