Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Henry Bockstoce Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Henry Bockstoce'

The Story

Plant Bio

A robust hybrid peony with large, fragrant, double blooms and lush foliage.

Notable for its very large, fully double, vibrant cardinal-red flowers on strong stems.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora offers stunning, fragrant flowers that add elegance to any garden or floral arrangement.

Provides a reliable perennial bloom with minimal maintenance once established.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies during blooming season.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony, Common Garden Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Late summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions in early spring for best results.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune spent stems in late fall or early spring to encourage new growth.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or late fall.

Pro Tip

Plant peonies in well-draining soil with full sun for abundant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells to prevent stress 💧
Apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature 🌱
Support heavy blooms with plant rings or stakes if necessary
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during peak blooming season
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to avoid weak, leggy growth
Never transplant mature peonies in mid-summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant border plant with fragrant, showy flowersShade-tolerant specimen for garden bedsPotted plant for patios and entryways

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Lavender SalviaDaylilies

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Henry Bockstoce Peony questions

What zones can Henry Bockstoce Peony grow in?

Henry Bockstoce 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 Henry Bockstoce Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Henry Bockstoce Peony bloom?

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

Does Henry Bockstoce Peony need full sun?

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