Species

Paeonia obovataObovate Peony

perennial

Willmott's peony

Paeonia obovata 'willmottiae'

Same species

Species

Paeonia obovataObovate 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 with proper care

Native To

Eastern Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Siberia)

Toxicity

Toxic to pets; can cause mild stomach upset in humans if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

An herbaceous woodland peony with sturdy, upright stems bearing blue-green, obovate leaflets. In late spring, it produces large, single, cup-shaped flowers. A key feature is its spectacular fall seed pods, which split to reveal metallic blue and scarlet seeds. This cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous growth and abundant, large white flowers, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens and shaded borders.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides large, fragrant blooms in late spring, enhancing garden aesthetic.

Prefers well-drained soil, reducing risk of root diseases.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck healthy rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, well-drained soil.
Choose a site with partial sun for optimal blooming.
Water regularly during dry spells for consistent growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Stake tall varieties to support heavy blooms.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sheltered spot to protect from harsh winter winds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry periods to keep soil moist 💧
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Prune dead or diseased stems after blooming
Fertilize in early spring with organic compost

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb rhizomes during the growing season
Skip heavy pruning in late fall
Don’t plant in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant border with lush foliageEarly spring accent plantShaded woodland garden feature

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Bleeding Heart Coral Bells Lungwort

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Willmott's peony questions

What zones can Willmott's peony grow in?

Willmott's 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 Willmott's peony deer resistant?

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

When does Willmott's peony bloom?

Willmott's 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 Willmott's peony need full sun?

Willmott's peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Willmott's peony drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Willmott's peony handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.