Paeonia lactiflora 'Monsieur Jules Elie'

Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Monsieur Jules Elie Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Monsieur Jules Elie'

The Story

Plant Bio

Herbaceous perennials native to Asia, prized for their large, often fragrant flowers and attractive, deeply-lobed foliage that remains lush through summer.

An heirloom variety (1888) with very large, fragrant, double rose-pink flowers up to 7 inches across. The central petals are often a lighter, silvery-pink. Excellent as a cut flower.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora adds elegance with its large, fragrant flowers, perfect for borders and cut arrangements.

Its robust nature makes it a reliable perennial for various garden settings.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Central and Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-drained, fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Tuck seeds or divide tubers in early spring or fall for best results.
Plant tubers 2 inches deep and space 18-24 inches apart.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during active growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to encourage blooms.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sunny spot with good air circulation for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead stems
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t disturb tubers during active growth
Skip fertilizing in late fall
Refrain from pruning in late summer as it can reduce next season’s blooms

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Stake
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial borderFragrant cut flower displayShaded woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea HostaFerns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Monsieur Jules Elie Peony questions

What zones can Monsieur Jules Elie Peony grow in?

Monsieur Jules Elie Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Monsieur Jules Elie Peony deer resistant?

Yes — Monsieur Jules Elie Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Monsieur Jules Elie Peony bloom?

Monsieur Jules Elie Peony typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Monsieur Jules Elie Peony need full sun?

Monsieur Jules Elie Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.