Species

Paeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

52 other cultivars

perennial

Dinner Plate Peony

Paeonia lactiflora 'Dinner Plate'

The Story

Plant Bio

Paeonia lactiflora, or Chinese peony, is a classic garden perennial cherished for its large, often fragrant, late spring flowers and lush, deep green foliage that remains attractive all summer.

Produces enormous, fully double, shell-pink flowers, up to 8-10 inches across, with ruffled petals. The blooms are fragrant and appear in late spring to early summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Paeonia lactiflora Dinner Plate offers large, showy, fragrant flowers that enhance garden aesthetics and provide sensory delight.

Its robust root system stabilizes soil and prevents erosion in garden beds.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesPaeonia lactifloraChinese Peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

36"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many decades with proper care

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Tuck seeds or root divisions in early spring or fall.
Plant at a depth of 2 inches, spacing 3 feet apart.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases and promote healthy blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead stems
Fertilize annually with organic compost or balanced fertilizer
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots during the growing season
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to avoid weak growth
Don’t plant in poorly drained soils

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 border with fragrant bloomsClassic cottage garden centerpieceSoftly scented flower bed accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia HostaFerns Alliums

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dinner Plate Peony questions

What zones can Dinner Plate Peony grow in?

Dinner Plate 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 Dinner Plate Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Dinner Plate Peony bloom?

Dinner Plate 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 Dinner Plate Peony need full sun?

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