53 named cultivars

perennial

Chinese Peony

Paeonia lactiflora

The Story

Plant Bio

Herbaceous perennials forming a bushy clump of attractive, deeply-lobed foliage. Known for their large, often fragrant, showy flowers in late spring and early summer that are prized for cutting.

The parent species of most common garden peonies (Chinese Peonies). They are exceptionally long-lived, require a period of winter chill to flower, and their foliage remains handsome throughout the growing season.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora offers stunning, fragrant flowers that enhance garden aesthetics and attract pollinators.

Ideal for cut flower arrangements, providing long-lasting blooms indoors.

Supports bees and beneficial insects, enriching garden biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30"

Width

30"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate; prefers good air circulation

Lifespan

Extremely long-lived, often 50+ years

Native To

Central and Eastern Asia (China, Mongolia, Siberia)

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Plant peony roots in early fall, 2 inches deep and 3 feet apart.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Mulch with organic matter to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Stake tall varieties to prevent flopping during growth.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for vigorous blooms.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies with the eyes (buds) no more than 1-2 inches below soil surface for best flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Support tall stems to prevent flopping
Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during the growing season
Avoid fertilizing late in the season
Do not plant too deep

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial border with lush foliageFragrant cut flower for bouquetsSoft-focus garden edge with pastel blooms

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaFoxglove HostaPeony

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Chinese Peony questions

What zones can Chinese Peony grow in?

Chinese 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 Chinese Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Chinese Peony bloom?

Chinese 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 Chinese Peony need full sun?

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