1 named cultivar

‘willmottiae’Willmott's peony

perennial

Obovate Peony

Paeonia obovata

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘willmottiae’Willmott's peony

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Paeonia obovata is a deciduous herbaceous perennial characterized by its rounded, lobed leaves and large, showy flowers that range from white to pale pink, often blooming in early spring. This species is notable for its early blooming period and its ability to thrive in woodland settings with well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring interest with large, fragrant flowers that enhance garden aesthetics.

Easy to grow in shaded areas with minimal maintenance.

Supports pollinators like bees during bloom.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a well-draining, fertile loam soil location.
Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in fall or early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Ensure partial shade during hottest parts of the day.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained soil with good organic matter for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 💧
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
Remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during flowering
Skip heavy fertilization late in season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant border with fragrant bloomsShady woodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Bleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Obovate Peony questions

What zones can Obovate Peony grow in?

Obovate Peony is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Obovate Peony deer resistant?

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

When does Obovate Peony bloom?

Obovate 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 Obovate Peony need full sun?

Obovate Peony does best in part shade.