perennial

Chinese Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Bu-Te'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

34 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Herbaceous perennial with a bushy, clump-forming habit. Features lush, deep green, compound foliage that remains attractive throughout the growing season. Produces large, often fragrant flowers in late spring and early summer. A Japanese-form peony with large, pure white outer guard petals surrounding a striking central boss of bright golden-yellow staminodes. Lightly fragrant and borne on strong stems.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Bu-Te offers stunning, fragrant blooms that enhance garden aesthetics and create a romantic atmosphere.

Its sturdy, cuttable flowers last long in arrangements, providing seasonal beauty indoors.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies during blooming season.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or division roots into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around roots.
Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Stake taller varieties to prevent wind damage.
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies in full sun with good air circulation for optimal blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Prune after flowering to shape plant

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during flowering
Never fertilize late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial borderFragrant cut flower arrangementShaded woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Delphiniums Iris Lupines

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 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.