Scarlet O'Hara Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Scarlet OHara'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
20+ years
Native To
Hybrid origin
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Scarlet O'Hara is known for its vibrant, deep red blooms that are large and fragrant. This cultivar stands out due to its exceptional flower quality and unique coloration, making it a popular choice for garden displays.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Plant peony roots in early spring or fall, 2 inches deep and 3 feet apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
- 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 growing season 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Support tall stems with stakes
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not transplant peonies during flowering
- Avoid fertilizing late in the season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Scarlet O'Hara Peony questions
What zones can Scarlet O'Hara Peony grow in?
Scarlet O'Hara 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 Scarlet O'Hara Peony deer resistant?
Yes — Scarlet O'Hara Peony is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Scarlet O'Hara Peony bloom?
Scarlet O'Hara 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 Scarlet O'Hara Peony need full sun?
Scarlet O'Hara Peony does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Paeonia to compare
Sarah Bernhardt Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Sarah Bernhardt'
Tree Peony 'Duchesse de Lorraine'
Paeonia x suffruticosa 'Duchesse de Lorraine'
Tibetan Tree Peony
Paeonia deltoidea
Daydream Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Daydream'
Festiva Maxima Peony Chinese Peony
Paeonia lactiflora 'Festiva Maxima'
Rozella Peony
Paeonia officinalis 'Rozella'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Scarlet O'Hara Peony with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
