Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Philomele Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Philomele'

The Story

Plant Bio

Paeonia lactiflora 'Philomele' is a perennial herbaceous peony known for its large, fragrant blooms and lush foliage.

An anemone-type peony with large, fragrant flowers. Features rose-pink outer guard petals surrounding a prominent center of smaller, raspberry-pink petaloids edged in yellow.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Philomele offers stunning, fragrant blooms that add elegance and color to garden borders and cut flower arrangements.

Its robust nature makes it a reliable perennial with minimal maintenance once established.

Provides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinators.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

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

Moderate

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-draining, fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Plant peony crowns in early fall, 2-3 inches deep, with eyes facing upward.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Water regularly during first two growing seasons, especially in dry periods.
Stake tall varieties to prevent flopping and support blooms.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sunny spot with good air circulation to promote healthy growth and reduce disease risk.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch annually to retain soil moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb the roots during blooming period
Skip heavy fertilization 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
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant perennial borderFragrant cut flower displayShady woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Lavender Salvia Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Philomele Peony questions

What zones can Philomele Peony grow in?

Philomele 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 Philomele Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Philomele Peony bloom?

Philomele 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 Philomele Peony need full sun?

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